Inside The Spurs

Kevin Durant Breaks Silence on Blockbuster Trade to Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets traded Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks and draft capital for Kevin Durant early Sunday afternoon
Matt Guzman|
Nov 26, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) against the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA Cup game at Footprint Center.
Nov 26, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) against the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA Cup game at Footprint Center. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In this story:

San Antonio SpursHouston RocketsPhoenix Suns

SAN ANTONIO — Kevin Durant couldn't help but smile.

Sitting on a stage with a microphone fielding questions from a moderator at Fanatics' Fan Fest in New York City, the news that he was to be a Houston Rocket broke by way of crowd boos.

Durant oft has time for hecklers on social media. This time, he only had a few words.

“We’re going to see man," he said over the crowd. "We’re going to see.”

Durant was sent to the Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and five second-round picks. Because of the poison pill restriction in Green's contract, the deal cannot be finalized until the new league year begins on July 6.

Durant spent three seasons with the Suns — two full seasons and part of 2022-23 after being dealt by the Brooklyn Nets at February's Trade Deadline — but failed to make it past the second round each postseason. Phoenix hit its lowest after missing the playoffs entirely this spring.

Now, the Suns are set to welcome their third coach in as many years with a core still featuring Bradley Beal and Devin Booker along with Green and Brooks.

Phoenix wasn't afforded much leverage in talks surrounding Durant, but it was able to recoup some draft capital to use on future prospects or in further trades as it looks for continued contention in the Western Conference.

Perhaps it will see Durant again, in due time, in the postseason.

Related Articles

Why Victor Wembanyama Might Make LeBron James Retire

Victor Wembanyama Reveals His NBA Role Models At Fanatics Fest NYC

Victor Wembanyama Sends Message Before Thunder-Pacers Game 7

Published
Matt Guzman
MATT GUZMAN

Matt Guzman is a sports journalist and storyteller from Austin, Texas. He serves as a credentialed reporter and site manager for San Antonio Spurs On SI. In the world of professional sports, he’s a firm believer that athletes are people, too. He aims to spotlight the true, behind-the-scenes character of players and teams through strong narrative writing and sharp, hooking ledes.

Share on XFollow mattgzman
Home/News