Such is the brilliance of Kevin Durant that the Houston Rockets did not mind putting together the largest trade in NBA history. In a deal that involved seven franchises and 13 players. Coming off a disappointing tenure with the Phoenix Suns, it’s a new start for the Slim Reaper.
Even though Durant would be a valuable addition wherever he went, he certainly has the opportunity to build something special in Houston. This is primarily due to the Rockets having a budding star in Alperen Sengun, who made his first All-Star appearance in the 2024-25 season. Forming a big man duo with Sengun is something entirely new for Durant, who had mainly played with star players at the guard position until now.
The addition of KD has undoubtedly increased the Rockets’ odds of winning the West. Adding to it is the buzz around Durant and Coach Ime Udoka joining forces. Recently, NBA veteran Carmelo Anthony shared his biggest takeaway about Durant representing H-Town.
“Think about this, KD never played with a big man that you could throw the ball into, and the offense could be ran through the center. Somebody who could go twirl on the block. Somebody who could play up top. Somebody who is a similar game to Jokic. KD never played on the team with that type of big man,” said Melo.
A new setup for Durant
Soon to enter his 18th year in the league, KD has attained most of his success playing alongside guards. A list that includes the likes of Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving and Devin Booker. However, this is not the case with 6’11” Sengun.
Elaborating further on the Durant-Sengun tandem, Anthony had the following to say.
“Now you (KD) can just play on the wing, and I (KD) could just throw the ball to Sengun, or play pick and roll with Sengun,” added Durant, who also sees a lot of potential in Amen Thompson.
The four-time scoring champion does not need to be the primary source on offense anymore, as the Rockets have a host of young talent on the roster. He could take over during critical stages of the games, especially in the clutch. Everything said, only time will tell how things work for KD in Houston. The organization suffered its first major setback lately, with Fred VanVleet tearing his ACL.
Sengun excited to have KD
About to enter his 5th season with the Rockets, Sengun has shown consistent growth, averaging 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds and 4.9 assists last season. Suffering a first-round exit during the 2025 playoffs, the roster visibly lacked experience.
Filling this void with an all-time great like Durant, Sengun looks forward to starting a new era with the Rockets.
“Now I know how we were worried about guarding KD when we’re playing against him. Now, we don’t have to worry about that (guarding KD). Other teams have to worry about that. I am just gonna help him as much as I can, and I’m sure he will help everybody,” smiled the 23-year-old.
The Durant-Sengun duo is one of a kind, given that they both are versatile bigs. A prolific scorer during his time in the league, Melo has complete faith in KD making it work alongside the Turkish Terminator.