Kevin Durant (Image Credits: Imagn)

Rockets’ Kevin Durant Trade Reportedly Would Have Looked Very Different if Fred VanVleet’s Injury Was Known

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Afshan Khan | Last updated Feb 14, 2026 12:30 PM ET

The 2026 NBA trade deadline turned heads with a flurry of blockbuster deals, drastically changing the dynamics for several powerhouse teams. However, the Houston Rockets held firm, opting to make no moves. Their highlight came last offseason when they snagged superstar Kevin Durant in a jaw-dropping seven-team trade – the largest in NBA history.

In a bold strategy, the Rockets traded Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, and a wealth of draft picks to secure Kevin Durant, setting themselves up for a thrilling season. However, despite this stellar play, the Rockets are still grappling with some roster holes. Their standout guard, Fred VanVleet, tore his right ACL during an offseason workout, sidelining him for the entire season.

This injury was a bitter blow for the Rockets, who envisioned a powerful duo of Durant and VanVleet. In a revealing statement, Ben DuBose of Rockets Wire suggested that the team might have reconsidered trading for Durant had they known about VanVleet’s misfortune.

“The Rockets wouldn’t have brought in Kevin Durant if they had known they wouldn’t have Fred…they knew last June that they needed Fred for a chance at contending with KD,” Ben DuBose said.

Houston wouldn’t have traded for Kevin Durant if it knew Fred VanVleet would be injured, per @BenDuBose

“The Rockets wouldn’t have brought in Kevin Durant if they had known they wouldn’t have Fred…they knew last June that they needed Fred for a chance at contending with KD.” pic.twitter.com/uidWbG2W5d
— SleeperRockets (@SleeperRockets) February 13, 2026

DuBose pointed out that the Rockets realized last June that they needed Fred to effectively contend with KD. Even in the face of setbacks, the Rockets kept their competitive edge sharp and ready to dominate.

Former Teammates Praise Kevin Durant As A Unique Superstar

Kevin Durant (Image Credits: Imagn)

LeBron James may hold the title of the oldest active player in the league, showcasing impressive longevity, but Kevin Durant isn’t far behind when it comes to resilience and endurance. In a captivating episode of the “6.75Range” podcast, Durant’s former teammate Dzanan Musa revealed what sets Durant apart as a truly extraordinary superstar.

“KD is a killer. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life. I’ve seen a lot of players, but nobody has that focus on the court to just dominate everyone…He scores 40, goes home, and puts on sweatpants. For example, he doesn’t have more than one car, nor does he wear expensive watches. You always see him in sweats and a hat. On the court, he’s unstoppable. From what I’ve played and seen, he might be the best scorer ever… The guy is incredible. I learned a lot from him,” Musa said.

Currently, Durant has played in 50 of the Rockets’ 53 games. He is averaging 25.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Meanwhile, the Rockets are currently enjoying fourth spot in the Western Conference standings with 33 wins and 20 losses.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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