As the Phoenix Suns head into an uncertain offseason, trade speculation around Kevin Durant continues to gain steam. With Durant reportedly narrowing his list of preferred destinations, the Houston Rockets have emerged as a legitimate suitor. But the situation is far from straightforward.
The Rockets, meanwhile, appear to be playing the long game. While Phoenix is seeking a substantial return, notably its own unprotected 2027 and 2029 first-round picks, Houston has shown little urgency to meet that price. Interestingly, those very picks were initially moved to the Nets as part of the Durant deal and later acquired by Houston.
Now, as Phoenix tries to claw them back, Houston is holding firm, betting that the Suns’ asking price will eventually come down as their leverage fades.
Brian Windhorst Sheds Light on Rockets’ Stance in Kevin Durant Trade Talks
Speaking on ESPN’s “Get Up,” veteran NBA insider Brian Windhorst broke down the current dynamic between the two franchises, explaining why Houston is in no rush to meet Phoenix’s demands.
“I think Houston is the team that can make the best trade and also is the best spot for Durant,” Windhorst said. He also noted the existing relationship between Durant and Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, adding, “Ime Udoka was an assistant coach for Brooklyn when KD was there. If Durant ends up in Houston, I think you’ve got a serious contender in the Western Conference there.”
The Suns are prioritizing their unprotected 2027 and 2029 first-round picks in return in a potential Kevin Durant trade with the Rockets, per @WindhorstESPN.
However, Houston knows Phoenix is losing leverage and won’t offer them in a deal. pic.twitter.com/QiKZySnM06
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 20, 2025
Still, that possibility hinges on Houston’s willingness to part with their most valuable draft capital, something they’re currently reluctant to do, and it shows.
“Houston is really not motivated to dip into the stash of picks that they have. They have two future Phoenix Suns draft picks. That’s what the Suns want back. They literally want some of the stuff back that they traded for Durant,” Windhorst explained.
With KD reportedly open to signing a two-year, $122 million extension with Houston, one of the few teams he would commit to long-term, the pressure is now on Phoenix to decide how far it’s willing to stretch its expectations. Houston, by contrast, is maintaining its leverage, betting that time will ultimately shift the balance in its favor.
