Kevin Durant says he loves leadership in Houston, very happy with trade to Rockets
'They had a great season last year,' said Durant, who is close with Rockets head coach Ime Udoka. 'I love their leadership. I felt like I would be a good addition.'
In an interview shortly after his trade was reported by ESPN's NBA insider Shams Charania, All-Star forwrd Kevin Durant said he is 'very happy' and 'looking forward' to being part of the Houston Rockets.
Durant found out about the blockbuster trade while on stage at Fanatics Fest in New York. Shortly after leaving the stage, Durant spoke with reporter Kay Adams, who asked about his desire to join the Rockets.
'They had a great season (52-30, No. 2 in the Western Conference) last year,' said Durant, who has long respected head coach Ime Udoka. 'I love their leadership. I felt like I would be a good addition.'
'Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I'm glad it's over with,' Durant continued. 'I had an idea, but I didn't know exactly when it was gonna happen. I'm glad we kind of did this on stage, it worked out.'
'When people can just hang your career in the balance, and just choose what they wanna do with your career... it's a nerve-wracking feeling. But being able to kind of dictate what you want to do, and being with a team that values you, I'm looking forward to it.'
Durant said he 'most definitely' had a hand in the trade, and he hopes it works out for both Houston and his former franchise in Phoenix.
'They got what they wanted, and I got what I wanted, so we can move on,' Durant said of the Suns. 'Good luck to them moving forward. I'll always remember my time there, but we're on to something else.'
More: Rockets trade for Kevin Durant in deal involving Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, draft equity
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