One of many greatest stars within the NBA, Kevin Durant, is transferring to the Houston Rockets in an enormous commerce deal involving seven groups – essentially the most in league historical past.
The commerce was introduced on Sunday by the Phoenix Suns, who’re sending Durant, a 15-time All-Star, to the Rockets. The deal consists of six gamers and 13 draft picks.
The groups concerned on this large commerce are the Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
As a part of the deal:
Houston will get Durant and centre Clint Capela.
Gamers like Jalen Inexperienced, Dillon Brooks, Daeqwon Plowden, and Khaman Maluach are heading to Phoenix, together with the rights to the tenth choose on this yr’s draft, Rasheer Fleming, Koby Brea, and a future second-round choose.
Brooklyn Nets will obtain two second-round draft picks.
Lakers get the rights to Adou Thiero.
Minnesota Timberwolves get rights to Rocco Zikarsky, two second-round picks, and a few cash.
Atlanta Hawks obtain David Roddy, a second-round choose swap, and money.
Golden State Warriors get the rights to Alex Toohey and Jahmai Mashack.
Ime Udoka, the Rockets’ head coach, praised Durant, calling him a participant who matches completely with the crew’s plans.
“His talent, love for the sport, and work ethic have made him probably the most revered gamers of his time. We’re excited to work with him,” stated Udoka.
Durant spoke concerning the transfer final month at Fanatics Fest in New York, the place he was instructed concerning the commerce whereas on stage.
“I’m wanting ahead to becoming a member of the Houston Rockets. It’s been a loopy few weeks, however I’m glad it’s sorted,” Durant stated.
“That they had an excellent season final yr, and I respect their management. I feel I is usually a good match.”
Talking concerning the Suns, his former crew, Durant added:
“They wished me to go. They bought what they wished, and I bought what I wished.
We are able to transfer on. I want them nicely and can at all times bear in mind my time there.”
Durant, who gained his fourth Olympic gold medal on the 2024 Paris Video games, performed 62 video games final season and averaged 26.6 factors, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per sport.
The Houston Rockets had a robust season, ending second within the Western Convention with a document of 52-30, however misplaced within the first spherical of the playoffs to the Golden State Warriors in seven video games.
Durant now returns to Texas, the place he performed faculty basketball for the College of Texas earlier than getting into the NBA.
