Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry (Photo By Imagn Images)
Kevin Durant’s trade speculations made an intense wave across the league early this offseason. The veteran forward ultimately landed up in the Houston Rockets’ young core, and he is ready to take the lead role. Durant played for several teams in the NBA, but his time with the Golden State Warriors remained a golden era in his career.

Durant and Stephen Curry nearly reunited on the Warriors before the 2025 trade deadline, as per ESPN. The Warriors, Phoenix Suns, and Miami Heat were close to a deal that would send Durant back to the Warriors, but the move did not land successfully as many expected. However, Durant did not show interest in joining his former team.

“I heard Golden State was in the mix around the trade deadline, but that’s when Rich came into play, and those relationships that we built around the league and also playing in Golden State helped,” Durant said and added, “We were able to tell them kind of hold off on that.” Durant won two titles and back-to-back finals MVPs with the Warriors. Despite all those successes, he chose not to return to the Warriors.

However, the contract negotiations between the Rockets and Durant are still ongoing, which shows some uncertainty about his future with the Rockets’ core. If everything goes well for both sides, Durant’s leadership and veteran experience will be crucial for the Rockets’ young depth.

Kevin Durant Shares Advice For Young Players Ahead Of The Upcoming Season

Kevin Durant (Image Credits: Imagn)
Durant is about to start a new chapter with the Rockets for the 2025-26 NBA season. He nears his 18^th NBA season and is still one of the league’s top players. Before the season, Durant spoke with his agent, Rich Kleiman, at the Game Plan Sports Business Summit in Los Angeles.

Durant shared advice with young players. “I would say build your game up to be the best that you could be,” Durant said. “Once you get on that platform of the NBA Finals, the playoffs. When you’re playing seven games and 5-6 million people are watching every night, that’s when you be who you are. Don’t try to change up your personality. Don’t try too hard, just be exactly who you are. Showcase your game, and people are going to gravitate toward you.”

With his veteran experience and leadership, Durant will be playing a crucial role in the Rockets’ core. He continues to inspire the new players, and under his leadership, he will build a strong team ready to fight on the court.