Kevin Durant’s trade to the Houston Rockets shocked many during Fanatics Fest in New York, with new details surfacing about Devin Booker’s involvement in the decision. An NBA insider disclosed that Booker actively participated in the Phoenix Suns’ roster decisions ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, including the pivotal trade involving Durant.

Devin Booker’s influence was significant in shaping the Suns’ strategy as the franchise aims to rebuild a strong team around him. After sending Durant to Houston, the Suns are focused on assembling a championship-caliber roster led by Booker, signaling his growing leadership role within the organization.

Devin Booker’s Active Role in the Kevin Durant Trade and Upcoming Contract Extension

Brian Windhorst, a respected NBA insider, confirmed that Devin Booker had a notable position in the Suns’ decision-making process concerning the Kevin Durant trade. This insight highlights Booker not only as a star player but also as a key figure influencing major franchise moves.

“Devin Booker was active in some of their other decisions, including the Kevin Durant trade, and I think he will be active in signing a 2 year record extension of $150M.” —Brian Windhorst, ESPN Show

The details of the trade saw the Suns exchanging Durant, a four-time scoring champion and 2014 NBA MVP, to the Rockets in return for young talent Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th overall draft pick, and five second-round picks. Despite his age, Durant remained highly productive last season with averages of 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.

The Suns resisted trading Durant for anything less than strong offers, and the Rockets met the challenge by sacrificing key players and assets. This move made it clear that Phoenix plans to reset its roster around Booker’s development and leadership.

Expectations for Devin Booker’s Contract and Future with the Suns

Following the trade, speculation about Devin Booker’s future intensified, but the Suns appear eager to retain their star guard. Reports indicate that Phoenix is preparing a substantial new contract to secure Booker’s long-term commitment.

Windhorst reported that Booker is poised to receive an annual salary of $70 million under a proposed extension, which could span two years and reach a record $150 million. This contract reflects Booker’s value to the team and his role as the franchise cornerstone for the 2025-26 season and beyond.

Booker’s tenure with Phoenix has been marked by high points, including a trip to the NBA Finals in 2021, despite the team’s struggles during the 2024-25 season. His leadership is seen as crucial to reviving team success, and his position seems untouchable amid the Suns’ ongoing roster changes.

The Strong Connection Between Devin Booker and Kevin Durant

Although Booker was involved in the decision to trade Durant, the two share a solid bond both on and off the court. Their chemistry was evident during their time as teammates, with Booker openly expressing admiration and respect for Durant.

“I mean, we still play together, but it’s just been a joy, from my favorite player to teammate, I don’t take it lightly, our relationship on and off the court… We’re right here.” —Devin Booker, to the media

Durant joined the Suns for the 2022-23 NBA season, forming a formidable “Big Three” alongside Booker and Bradley Beal. The trio sparked high expectations across the league, but the team’s results fell short of those hopes, ultimately prompting a major reorganization.

Looking Ahead: The Suns’ Plan to Build Around Booker

With the Durant era in Phoenix ending, the focus has shifted entirely to empowering Devin Booker as the team’s leader. The acquisition of young talents and draft picks through the trade indicates the franchise’s commitment to constructing a competitive squad centered on Booker’s talents.

The extension talks underscore the Suns’ belief that Booker can guide the team back to playoff contention and ultimately challenge for an NBA title. His involvement in roster decisions, paired with a lucrative contract proposal, suggests that Booker will remain the face of the franchise for years to come.

As the Suns prepare for the 2025-26 season, all eyes will be on how Booker, backed by his new teammates, can respond to the pressure and expectations. The decisions made now are designed to reshape Phoenix into a powerhouse once again, with Booker at the forefront of that mission.