NBA superstar Kevin Durant has officially joined the Houston Rockets from the Phoenix Suns in a record-breaking seven-team trade, the largest in league history.
The blockbuster deal, finalized as the NBA’s new season began on Sunday, involved 13 players and multiple future draft picks.
The unprecedented trade includes the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Lakers, surpassing the previous record of a six-team deal set last summer when Klay Thompson moved to the Dallas Mavericks.
Durant, 36, is a two-time NBA champion, 2014 MVP, and 15-time All-Star. He also boasts four Olympic gold medals with Team USA and recently became just the eighth player in NBA history to surpass 30,000 career points.
Announcing his departure on social media, Durant wrote:
“My time in Phoenix has come to an end. All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way… Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait!”
Rockets head coach Ime Udoka welcomed the veteran forward, saying, “His skill, passion for the game, and work ethic make him one of the most respected players of his generation. My staff and I are excited to work with him.”
Houston finished second in the Western Conference last season but exited in the first round of the playoffs. With Durant’s addition, expectations are high for a deeper postseason run.
Kevin Durant and Swiss center Clint Capela, who began his NBA career in Houston, are heading to the Rockets as part of the deal. The Phoenix Suns, in return, receive 18-year-old South Sudanese center Khaman Maluach—the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft—along with forward Dillon Brooks, guard Jalen Green, Atlanta wing Daeqwon Plowden, Minnesota forward Rasheer Fleming, Golden State guard Koby Brea, and two future draft picks.
The Atlanta Hawks receive forward David Roddy, cash considerations, and a 2031 draft pick swap from the Rockets. The Brooklyn Nets gain two future second-round picks while sending forward Adou Thiero to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Warriors pick up Australian forward Alex Toohey, originally drafted by the Suns, and guard Jahmai Mashack, the final pick in the draft by the Rockets.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves acquire two future draft picks from the Suns and 18-year-old Australian center Rocco Zikarsky, who was selected by the Lakers.
Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory praised Durant’s impact:
“One of the greatest to ever play the game… We thank Kevin for his contributions and wish him success in Houston.”
The trade marks a bold new chapter for Durant and the Rockets—and a major shake-up across the NBA landscape.
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