The Phoenix Suns are expected to explore trade options for Kevin Durant this summer following a disappointing finish to their 2024–25 campaign.
Phoenix missed the postseason entirely, placing 11th in the Western Conference with a 36–46 record.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, a potential suitor to watch closely is the Houston Rockets.
“If you lose early… could [the Rockets] look at a guy like Kevin Durant?… Monitor them,” Charania said, adding there’s a “level of mutual interest” between the two-time NBA champion and the Rockets.
Houston secured the No. 2 seed in the West after going 52–30 but remains unproven in playoff success with a young core.
If the Rockets exit early in the postseason, their front office may reevaluate the roster’s ability to contend and consider veteran reinforcements.
Durant, 36, averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while playing 36.5 minutes per game this season.
He has two seasons remaining on a four-year, $194 million deal signed in 2022.
The Suns are reportedly willing to work with Durant on a trade destination that aligns with his preferences and provides suitable value in return.
Houston possesses a mix of cap flexibility, young talent, and draft capital that could make them a viable trade partner.
The franchise has built around rising stars like Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green, with Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks providing veteran leadership.
Adding Durant would drastically change the Rockets’ trajectory, positioning them as immediate contenders in the Western Conference.
Phoenix’s decision to explore the market comes after consecutive seasons of unmet expectations despite a high-profile core including Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
The Suns posted a negative point differential this season and struggled defensively, allowing 116.6 points per game.
