Durant Expects to Sign Extension with Rockets After Suns Trade

Kevin Durant, one of the NBA's highest-profile players, addressed his sudden move from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets at the Rockets' media day and early training camp this week, saying he did not expect his tenure in Phoenix to end so quickly and expressing confidence he will remain in Houston long enough to sign a contract extension. Durant met with reporters in Houston after arriving in a blockbuster offseason trade that sent him to a team he said fits his playing style and coaching preferences.

"I wasn't expecting to leave Phoenix that quickly, but that's just the nature of the game," Durant said, reflecting on a single season in Phoenix that fell short of title expectations. He cited his relationship with coach Ime Udoka as a key factor in choosing Houston, saying Udoka "understood what I brought to the table" and gave him the freedom to play his game. Durant also pointed to the Rockets' recent identity — playing with length, switching on defense and emphasizing transition and driving and kicking — as complementary to his strengths.

Durant said he expects to sign a contract extension with the Rockets, though he would not provide a timeline. "I do see myself signing...