Apr 25, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Russell Westbrook (0) against Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) during game five of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Stephen A. Smith Urges Russell Westbrook to Reunite With Kevin Durant

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI | By Jed Katz | Last updated Jun 22, 2025 7:24 PM ET

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook will always be regarded as some of the greatest players in Oklahoma City Thunder history. The two were a dynamic duo for years, reaching multiple Western Conference Finals and the NBA Finals in 2012.

It's been a long time since the two parted ways in 2016, with Durant's decision to join the Golden State Warriors. After their tenures with the Thunder, they've played for numerous teams, with Westbrook finishing up this past season with the Denver Nuggets, while Kevin Durant was just traded to the Houston Rockets in a blockbuster move, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

BREAKING: The Phoenix Suns are trading two-time NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft and five second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/EwrbA2ES9O
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 22, 2025

The Durant trade wasn't much of a shock, as trade negotiations had been building for weeks. He now has a new home in Texas, while Westbrook's future is still up in the air. The 36-year-old declined his player option after averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists with the Nuggets.

With the former MVP entering free agency, there's speculation on whether or not he re-signs with Denver. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith believes the Rockets should reunite Durant and his former running mate.

Since Dillon Brooks is gone, how about going after @russwest44?? The man is still a warrior. Ain’t backing down from anyone. Can’t underestimate his toughness and dependability. Not saying it’s going to happen but wouldn’t mind seeing this for @KDTrey5 and the @HoustonRockets at… https://t.co/8jvauJtFls
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) June 22, 2025

"Since Dillon Brooks is gone, how about going after @russwest44??" Smith tweeted. "The man is still a warrior. Ain’t backing down from anyone. Can’t underestimate his toughness and dependability. Not saying it’s going to happen but wouldn’t mind seeing this for @KDTrey5 and the @HoustonRockets at all. To hell with all the past nonsense. Let’s all move forward."

It would certainly be an interesting move. Houston still has to make a decision on its current point guard, Fred VanVleet. The veteran has a $44.9 million team option for the 2025-26 season.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: