© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
HOUSTON – When Kevin Durant sees the Phoenix Suns on the other bench, it will never feel routine. Not to him, not to Phoenix, and definitely not tonight.
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This is KD’s first game against Phoenix since the trade that sent Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to the Valley isn’t just a reunion, it’s a referendum. The move reshaped two franchises, and the early returns have made this game a litmus test for where each team actually stands.
Dec 3, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) shoots outside against the Sacramento Kings during the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Earlier this season, Phoenix was defeated by Houston without Kevin Durant by a score of 114-92. The Suns will need to not only contain Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun, but now have their hands full with Durant. Expect early sets designed to get Durant isolated on smaller wings, Phoenix’s most vulnerable defensive zone without Booker’s length and on-ball pressure. If the Suns can make Durant uncomfortable with aggressive defense, they can definitely throw a wrench into the Rockets’ game plan.
Nov 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) defends against Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Suns’ biggest problem of not having star scorers Devin Booker or Jalen Green is something they will have to learn to overcome. That means the Suns’ role players aren’t just complementary tonight, they’re the strategy. Dillon Brooks must continue to be a volume shooter, Mark Williams will need to absorb tough defensive minutes, and Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin’s ability to initiate clean half-court possessions may determine whether Phoenix can keep pace.
Nov 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) moves the ball against Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Suns fans, this game carries both emotional and long-term weight. Durant’s return brings closure, or maybe sparks, while Booker and Green’s absence forces Phoenix to confront a question of what their identity looks like without their two main scorers.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
