The Houston Rockets may have just hit the jackpot with getting Kevin Durant in a blockbuster trade that involved seven different teams. Coming off a first-round exit in the 2025 playoffs, coach Ime Udoka and crew could not have asked for more, with their chances looking brighter than ever.
Unfortunately, the deal led to them parting ways with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks and some valuable draft capital. That said, given his credentials, most teams would not mind throwing the kitchen sink for Durant. It is no surprise that Houston has now emerged as one of the favorites to win it all in 2026.
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The trade seems to have also impressed Shaquille O’Neal, who looks forward to watching the KD-Alperen Sengun pairing in Houston. During a recent red carpet Q&A session with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, the Diesel was asked to share the most underrated move of the current off-season.
“You know, I don’t pay attention to off-season, but I probably say, Kevin Durant going to Houston, probably can turn into something very special,” replied Shaq.
O’Neal is excited to see the Durant-Sengun tandem
Rockets fans finally have something to cheer about post the James Harden era. The current roster has demonstrated high potential, particularly with emerging stars like Sengun and Amen Thompson. The versatile Turkish big man has displayed impressive playmaking, crafty footwork, and rebounding skills, while the Thompson twin seems to be the most athletic player in the league already.
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Heading into the 2025-26 season, Alperen has the opportunity to learn from one of the greats in Kevin. The new Rockets duo has generated a lot of buzz among fans, including O’Neal, who sees a lot of promise, especially regarding Sengun.
“The ‘Turkish Terminator’, that’s what we call him, and I actually love his game, and hopefully they can put something special together,” revealed Shaq.
Considering how Durant fills the gaps on the Rockets, it is hard to disagree with O’Neal, particularly with his experience and clutch abilities. In addition, KD may no longer need to carry the offensive load on a nightly basis, with the presence of young teammates like Sengun, Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr.
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Sengun’s thoughts on teaming up with Durant
One of the greatest scorers the game has ever seen, KD can just do about everything on the offensive end. A solid addition to any team, Durant could serve as the perfect guide for Sengun.
“I’m excited to play with Durant. Everyone is excited to play with him. It doesn’t matter his age. Ultimately, he’s Kevin Durant. I have no doubt he will bring a lot to the team. He’s very experienced, and we have some very young players. I think he’ll open up the game for us. He’s incredibly effective both offensively and defensively,” said Alpi.
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Despite having the size, Durant and Sengun play a different brand of basketball from traditional big men. A significant element of skill is associated with their game, whether it be their footwork or ability to score inside and outside. Irrespective, the trade has surely earned O’Neal’s approval, who feels the Rockets may have something special to offer in the upcoming season.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Sep 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.