PHOENIX – Tuesday’s game is a massive one for the Phoenix Suns and their fans. The franchise is in dire pursuit of a top six seed, three games behind the Minnesota Timberwolves with four games to go. However, more personally, Tuesday’s game vs. the Houston Rockets will be Kevin Durant’s first time back in Phoenix since being traded this past offseason.
Durant’s two and a half season stint with the Suns was polarizing to say the least. One playoff series win in three years, but stellar individual stats that were unquestionable. The former MVP left it out on the court, but the wins didn’t follow leading to the two sides breaking up. An infer mutual thing, but since the trade Durant has thrown mini shots towards the franchise about the team having no expectations for the 2025-2026 season.
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Animosity has grown over social media making Tuesday’s matchup interesting dilemma for how fans will react to the 16-time All-Star’s return.
Mar 21, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after making a three point basket against Miami Heat forward Simone Fontecchio (0)(not pictured) in the second half at Toyota Center. Durant scored 27 points in the game passing Michael Jordan for fifth all time in points in the NBA. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
How will fans react to Durant
The Suns and Rockets have faced off three times this season, with Houston winning every matchup. Durant only appeared in both of the matchups away from Phoenix and dominated in each instance. In the first game, the 36-year-old shot 11-of-17 from the field for 28 points and eight assists in a 117-98 blowout.
Jan 5, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) hugs Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) after defeating the Phoenix Suns at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
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During the Jan. 5th matchup, Durant shot below 50% but still came out clutch with 26 points, including a final second three-pointer to give the Rockets the nail-biting victory. Since that game, Phoenix has gone 22-20, while Houston has found themselves by going 27-18. Durant’s squad is currently on a six-game winning streak and playing the best basketball of the season.
Feb 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) and Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) look on against the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Durant has treated the Suns and their fans like a little brother, downplaying accomplishments on social media and then giving them the dagger when on the court. Fans certainly won’t be happy to see Durant thriving outside of the Valley and will let him know inside Mortgage Matchup Center.
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Houston currently sits at the fifth seed, looking to be locked on the other side of the Western Conference playoff bracket. Tuesday will seemingly be the last and only time Durant will play in Phoenix this season, making it a must watch affair.
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports