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Kevin Durant on returning to Phoenix for the first time since being traded

The Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns are set for a late-season matchup with added attention, as Kevin Durant prepares to face his former team in Phoenix for the first time since last summer’s trade. With only a few games remaining in the regular season, both teams are positioning for the postseason, making the meeting significant beyond the personal storyline.

Durant, who was traded from Phoenix to Houston in June, addressed his return during shootaround and reflected on how his departure unfolded. “I’m pretty much over it,” Durant said via Arizona Sports. “At the time, it was tough to take. A place I wanted to be. I wanted to keep building, but it’s the business of the league, and it’s the business of basketball.”

His comments mark a shift in tone from earlier in the season, when he said he felt “booted out of the building and scapegoated” following the move.

The 37-year-old also downplayed any emotional attachment to the matchup, noting that his time with the Suns was relatively short. “There’s not much sentimental value between me and this place,” Durant said. “It’s a great place to live, I definitely loved living here. But I was only here for a short amount of time.”

Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns Tenure Ends Without Lasting Impact

GettyPhoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant

Durant joined Phoenix at the 2023 trade deadline with expectations of contending for a championship alongside the team’s core. However, the partnership produced limited postseason success. The Suns won just one playoff series during his tenure and ultimately missed the playoffs in his final season with the franchise.

Reflecting on that period, Durant acknowledged that he did not feel he left a significant mark on the organization. “There’s nothing really big or significant,” he said. “I wasn’t here long enough to really feel like I left a mark here. And that’s unfortunate because I want to leave marks everywhere I go,” via Duane Rankin.

Despite strong individual production, including efficient scoring and consistent output, the team struggled to find sustained success. Phoenix also underwent multiple coaching changes during his time there, further adding to the instability.

Durant noted that while the ending was difficult initially, he has since moved on. “Yeah, I was sour early on, but I think I’ve gotten over it. Time heals all. Just move on,” he said.

Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets Playoff Push Gains Focus

GettyHouston Rockets forward Kevin Durant

Now that Houston is in the playoffs, Durant has shifted his focus entirely to the Rockets’ postseason outlook. The team enters the matchup with a 49-29 record, competing for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

Durant has remained productive in his new role, averaging 25.9 points per game while maintaining efficient shooting splits from the field, the three-point line, and the free-throw line. His presence was expected to stabilize Houston’s offense, particularly in late-game situations.

The Rockets, however, have experienced inconsistency throughout the season. Injuries to key players, including Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams, disrupted their rotation and affected offensive rhythm. The team’s performance in clutch situations has also declined compared to last season.

Even so, Durant’s impact remains evident. Houston’s net rating improves when he is on the floor, reflecting his continued influence despite the team’s broader challenges.

Tuesday’s game adds another layer to an already important stretch for both teams. For Phoenix, currently holding a play-in position, the matchup provides an opportunity to build momentum. For Houston, it represents another step in solidifying its playoff standing.

While Durant acknowledged the circumstances surrounding his departure, his comments indicate a clear shift toward the present. “Move on and appreciate the time spent, but I’m focused on where I’m at now,” he said.

As the regular season winds down, the focus for both sides remains on results. Durant’s return may draw attention, but the outcome on the court carries greater weight for the two teams heading into the postseason.