The NBA offseason has seen a significant development as Kevin Durant was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets. This blockbuster deal, announced five days ago, brings the 15-time All-Star to a Rockets team that finished second in the Western Conference during the 2024-2025 season. The trade sent several draft picks, Dillon Brooks, and young star Jalen Green to the Suns, sparking debate about whether Houston’s decision to acquire a veteran like Durant at the expense of a promising player like Green was the right move.
Jeff Teague Assesses the Impact of Durant Over Green for Houston
Former NBA champion Jeff Teague shared his thoughts on the trade during a conversation with Rich Eisen. Teague expressed strong support for Houston’s decision, emphasizing that Durant fills a vital role for the Rockets that Green has yet to satisfy. Recognizing Green’s potential as an impactful player, Teague highlighted Durant’s experience and leadership as key factors that make the trade beneficial for Houston.
I love them getting Durant. I think Jalen Green is going to be a really good player in the NBA, but when you can move him and get Kevin Durant, a full-blown star who is a basketball head, and I think KD has four-five good years left in him,
said Teague.
Durant’s Shooting and Longevity Offer Houston Stability
Teague pointed to Durant’s remarkable shooting ability as proof that the veteran can maintain an elite level of play for several more seasons. Durant’s consistent 50-40-90 shooting splits, particularly his proficiency with jump shots, provide a foundation for continued effectiveness despite his age.
Most of his shots that he shoot are jump shots, and to shoot 50-40-90 from the field, and you shoot mainly jump shots, I think you’re gonna be fine for the next four-five years.
The Importance of a Reliable Closer for Houston’s Playoff Success
One of the most significant attributes Teague credits Durant with is his ability to close games under pressure. Houston struggled to secure wins in tight moments during their recent playoff series, a weakness Teague believes Durant can fix with his proven clutch performances.
He’s a capable closer. We know that he can close. He’s gonna make big shots. He’s gonna get 26-27 points a game,
Teague explained.
That’s all the Rockets were missing down the stretch. A closer, and that’s what they got in Kevin Durant.
Future Outlook for the Rockets with Their New Core
Although sacrificing a rising talent like Jalen Green for a veteran nearing the latter stages of his career may raise questions about Houston’s long-term plans, the immediate boost provided by Durant’s presence is hard to overlook. Durant averaged 26.6 points per game with the Suns last season and demonstrated impressive accuracy, supporting Teague’s view that Durant remains among the NBA’s elite offensive players.
The Rockets’ recent playoff exit came after falling to the Golden State Warriors in the first round, where late-game losses highlighted the need for a dependable scorer to close contests. The addition of Durant, alongside key players such as Fred VanVleet, Tari Eason, and Amen Thompson, sets the stage for Houston to potentially replicate or surpass their second-place conference finish in the upcoming season.
Ultimately, the full impact of Durant’s arrival for the Rockets will become clearer once the regular season gets underway. Still, by acquiring a proven star with closing ability, Houston appears better equipped to contend deep into the playoffs.