The recent blockbuster trade sending Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets has clear winners and losers, with significant implications for both franchises and the broader NBA landscape.
Winners
Houston Rockets
Immediate Contender Upgrade: The Rockets, who finished second in the Western Conference last season, acquired Durant without giving up any of their most prized young assets. They traded Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 draft, and five second-round picks but retained their key young core and future first-round picks.
Offensive Boost: Durant, a 15-time All-Star and one of the league’s top scorers, averaged 26.6 points per game last season with excellent shooting splits (52.7% FG, 43% 3PT, 83.9% FT). His arrival addresses Houston’s offensive struggles, improving their shooting efficiency and scoring ability.
Championship Aspirations: At nearly 37 years old, Durant brings veteran leadership and championship experience to a young Rockets team poised to contend, making Houston an instant title threat without sacrificing their long-term future.
The Eastern Conference
The trade indirectly benefits the Eastern Conference by strengthening a Western Conference contender, potentially altering the balance of power and playoff dynamics across conferences.
Losers
Phoenix Suns
- Rebuild Mode: The Suns received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 overall pick, and five second-round picks in exchange for Durant. While these are valuable assets, the return is considered underwhelming for a player of Durant’s caliber, especially given his status as a future Hall of Famer and recent Finals MVP-caliber talent.
- Loss of Star Power: Durant’s departure leaves the Suns without their marquee star, signaling a shift away from immediate contention toward a rebuild or retooling phase.
- Crowded Perimeter: The Suns had a crowded situation at the perimeter, which likely influenced their decision to trade Durant and acquire multiple assets instead of trying to keep him.
Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat
- Both teams were reportedly in pursuit of Durant but missed out on acquiring him, which could be viewed as a loss given Durant’s impact potential2.
Summary
- The Houston Rockets emerge as the clear winners by adding a top-tier scorer and veteran star without sacrificing their core future assets, positioning themselves as immediate championship contenders.
- The Phoenix Suns appear to be the losers, receiving a modest haul that suggests a pivot to rebuilding, losing a generational talent in Durant.
- Other teams like the Timberwolves and Heat also lose out by missing the chance to add Durant to their rosters.
This trade reshapes the NBA landscape by bolstering Houston’s title hopes and signaling a new chapter for Phoenix.