NBA Trade News: Kevin Durant breaks Golden State Warriors' hearts with power move to Houston Rockets after Phoenix Suns fallout
The Golden State Warriors just faced another blow this offseason. While fans hoped for a reunion with Kevin Durant after their early playoff exit, those dreams were crushed when the Phoenix Suns made a blockbuster trade.
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Durant is now heading to the Houston Rockets in a major deal that's shaking up the league. And just like that, the Golden State Warriors' summer plans took a sharp and unexpected turn.
Kevin Durant gets traded on June 23 while Golden State Warriors miss their shot
On Sunday, June 23, Kevin Durant was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets. The trade was first shared by ESPN's Shams Charania. Kevin Durant is now with the Houston Rockets. The Suns made the deal and picked up Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th choice in the 2025 draft, and five future second-rounds.
The news came not long after the Golden State Warriors were sent home from the playoffs in the second round. Some fans had quietly hoped that this summer could bring Durant back. He played in the Golden State from 2016 to 2019.
During these years, the team won two championships, and Durant got Finals MVP twice. Coach Steve Kerr had even said, that they reached out before the February 6 deadline. But the deal didn't happen.
The team stayed hopeful for a summer chance. That chance is now gone.
Kevin Durant leaves Phoenix Suns after a rough year
The 2024–25 season wasn't kind to the Phoenix Suns. Even with big names like Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker, the team ended the season with a 36–46 record. They missed the Play-In Tournament and it was a big letdown.
Soon after, the Suns fired head coach Mike Budenholzer. That made it clear that big changes were coming. And Kevin Durant was next.
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At 37 years old, Durant still played well. He averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He shot 52.7% from the field and 43.0% from three-point range. But the Phoenix Suns wanted a younger team and more future picks.
Now, the Houston Rockets get a superstar. And the Golden State Warriors are still hurting from their playoff exit and are left looking for new options.
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