When the Phoenix Suns' big three of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal flamed out, the basketball world was wondering who would be Durant's next team as he enters the twilight of his career.
The Houston Rockets ended up providing the best package for Durant, sending Jalen Green. Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks. While the deal eventually turned into a historic seven-team trade, this was the initial return for the Suns.
Now, Durant joins the No. 2 seed in the West from last year and is entering the final year of his current contract. While he intends to extend with the Rockets, it's been reported that he is willing to give Houston a discount.
Durant Reportedly Willing to Give a Discount to the Rockets
-----------------------------------------------------------
While some teams were nervous about acquiring Durant this Summer, given the fact that he could be a one-year rental, the Rockets were not one of those teams. Houston was listed as a preferred destination for the two-time Finals MVP.
Brian Windhorst of ESPN reported that Durant is willing to be generous with the Rockets and may give them some leeway when it comes to a future contract, given the current circumstances.
"The Rockets and Durant have had discussions about a new contract, and there is belief they will come to terms, sources said, but they’ve yet to come to an agreement," Windhorst [wrote.](https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46042225/lebron-james-kevin-durant-unprecedented-next-chapter-their-20-year-rivalry) "Durant, like \[LeBron\] James, is no longer viewed as a centerpiece, as Houston builds around a young core of players it acquired through the draft."
"...In the end, Durant might need to accept less than a maximum contract, which he has been on since 2011, if he wants to stay in Houston."
The Rockets are loaded with young talent. With up-and-coming players such as Alperen Şengün, Reed Sheppard, and Amen Thompson, it makes sense as to why they would want to keep their books clean for any other upcoming contract extensions.
If Durant wants to make Houston the final chapter in his storied NBA career, he will have to play ball with the Rockets and take a pay cut to be their No. 1 scoring option and veteran leader. It's in his best interest, as his lack of suitors this Summer proved that he isn't the hot commodity he once was.