Kevin Durant, the star player of the Houston Rockets, will be absent from the team’s upcoming game against the Phoenix Suns. This decision comes down to personal reasons, which have been kept confidential. Durant’s absence will undoubtedly be a significant setback for the Rockets, as he has been a key player in their recent success. The 15-time All-Star was traded to the Rockets from the Suns during the offseason, marking a highly anticipated return to the city where he played for two and a half seasons. However, his return will now have to wait.
Durant’s time with the Suns was productive, as he averaged an impressive 26.8 points over 145 regular-season games from 2023 to 2025. The trade that sent him to the Rockets involved a complex exchange of players and draft picks, with the Suns acquiring Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, and the No. 10 overall pick. The Suns used this pick to draft Duke center Khaman Maluach, adding another talented player to their roster.
Despite Durant’s absence, the Rockets have maintained a strong start to the season, boasting a 10-4 record. The 37-year-old is their leading scorer and has signed a two-year extension that runs through 2028. Meanwhile, the Suns are also off to a good start, improving to 11-6 with a recent win over the San Antonio Spurs. This game against the Suns will be a challenging one for the Rockets, as they navigate the absence of their star player and strive to maintain their winning streak.