
In addition to landing Durant, the Rockets announced the return of center Clint Capela in a sign-and-trade deal with the Atlanta Hawks.
The unprecedented deal also included the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Lakers, making it the largest trade in NBA history.
Durant, who will be joining his fifth NBA team, posted a farewell message to Suns fans on Sunday via X, expressing gratitude for his time in Phoenix and excitement for his next chapter in Houston.
"My time in Phoenix has come to an end," Durant posted. "All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remember it's a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players.
"I truly believe this nba is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait!"
The 15-time All-Star and 2014 MVP, who turns 37 in September, joins his fifth NBA franchise after a brief and turbulent stint with Phoenix.
Rockets general manager Rafael Stone praised Durant’s all-around impact, calling him 'one of the most efficient scorers in the history of basketball' and said he will blend well with Houston’s young core.
Head coach Ime Udoka, who previously worked with Durant in Brooklyn and with Team USA, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Durant’s competitive fit.
Houston, who also reacquired veteran center Capela, added frontcourt depth alongside Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams. Capela spent his first six seasons with the Rockets before five years in Atlanta.
Phoenix, in return, secured a promising package led by 18-year-old center Khaman Maluach - the 10th overall pick in the 2025 draft - along with Canadian forward Dillon Brooks, guard Jalen Green, and several young talents from Atlanta, Minnesota, and Golden State.
Other teams involved gained future picks, prospects, and cash considerations. The complex deal was finalized Sunday after the league’s annual signing moratorium ended.
Durant, who joined Phoenix in early 2023, helped them to just one playoff series win before the move. Drafted No. 2 overall by Seattle in 2007, he rose to stardom with the Thunder, winning two NBA titles with the Warriors and now looks to write a new chapter in Houston.
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