Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George addressed the recent Kevin Durant trade during an episode of Podcast P, presented by Wave Original, offering candid insight into the deal that sent the veteran scorer to the Houston Rockets.
George praised the Rockets’ aggressive approach, highlighting Durant’s continued production despite his age.
“Obviously Houston believes that he has a lot still in the tank, which KD has shown,” George said. “He still had another efficient, highly productive year…he’s still showing that he’s producing at a high level.”
The Rockets, who finished second in the Western Conference at 52–30, acquired Durant from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round selections.
With Durant now joining Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., and Fred VanVleet, Houston’s roster takes on a veteran presence.
George pointed to Houston’s shift in priorities.
“In Houston’s eyes, it’s let’s win now,” he said. “I think now you bring in, if we can make a run, we got someone that can close games for us and you bring KD. I’m not mad at it.”
At 36, Durant averaged 26.6 points over 75 games this season. His addition to Houston provides the franchise with a closer and proven postseason performer.
George acknowledged skepticism surrounding Durant’s age but noted Houston’s investment in the future, particularly around second-year guard Amen Thompson.
“I think people are because of KD’s age, they think what direction is Houston trying to go,” George said. “But they see a window and I think they’re trying to have a young star in Thompson who I think is a stud… Let’s put something around him to try to win.”
Addressing the other side of the deal, George expressed optimism for Jalen Green, who now heads to Phoenix after four seasons in Houston.
“It’s a chance for a fresh new identity for himself,” George said of the 23-year-old. “You saw that with Luka [Doncic], you can get traded at any point in the year. So you can’t take it personal.”
He stressed that Green’s response this offseason will be pivotal for his development.
“This summer’s got to be one of the hardest working summers he’s ever committed to,” George said. “He’s young, but I think this summer has got to be a huge summer for him.”
Phoenix missed the playoffs after a 36–46 finish. With Green and Brooks now on board, and multiple picks available, the Suns appear positioned to reset around a younger core.
Durant remains under contract through 2026, with the Rockets now emerging as one of the top contenders in the Western Conference.
