Kevin Durant‘s transition to the Houston Rockets marks more than just a change in uniform, it’s a departure from dysfunction after a turbulent stint with the Phoenix Suns – and he couldn’t be happier.
The 36-year-old is entering an environment where basketball is the priority, not backstage tension as he prepares to chase down another NBA championship with a roster full of potential.
“We’re gonna see, man,” Durant said of joining the Rockets. “We’re gonna see what happens.
“But I am excited-great young core, great coach… I’m looking forward to it. Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with.”
That sense of finality underscores how strained his time in Phoenix had become. What was once considered a title-contending roster rapidly devolved into internal conflict, leading to speculation of widespread breakdowns within the team structure.
The atmosphere in Phoenix had reportedly grown untenable by the end of the season. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne described the situation as “toxic,” with players walking on “pins and needles.”
Whilst further allegations from DeMarcus Cousins, though denied by KD himself, added to the storm, as he claimed he’d heard of “a couple of fistfights” breaking out among teammates.
One of the most visible manifestations of the tension came during a timeout in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers in which Durant was spotted in a heated exchange with coach Mike Budenholzer, and was caught on camera pulling his arm away.
This might have been the peak of the communication faltering between Budenholzer and several team leaders, including Devin Booker, leading many to believe the coach had lost control of the locker room. Something that ultimately contributed to his dismissal.
Houston Rockets offers a chance for KD to reset
In contrast, Houston presents a drastically different atmosphere-one that Durant and those around him believe is primed for growth and cohesion as they look for a first championship since 1995.
Amen Thompson, one of the Rockets‘ key young talents, sees Durant‘s arrival as a turning point in a series of reflect not only admiration but also optimism about a shared mindset.
“He’s one of the greatest players ever, one of the best scorers ever,” Thompson said. “I just hear his work ethic is different.
“You know, I feel like I have a different work ethic too, so just like combining that, and I think it’s gonna be on.”
Whilst Ime Udoka, who previously worked with Durant during their time together on Team USA and in Brooklyn, understands how to utilize his talents without overloading him with off-court responsibilities.
“His day-to-day routine is very similar to Fred [VanVleet] and Dillon [Brooks],” Udoka explained. “I think he takes us to another level with his work ethic…
“It’ll be invaluable for these guys to see and learn from him.”
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