The Houston Rockets ended up winning the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, acquiring the superstar forward from the Phoenix Suns in a major blockbuster trade. In order to get Durant, the Rockets had to give up rising star guard Jalen Green.

Houston picked Whitmore, 20, 20th in the 2023 draft with a pick acquired in the Memphis Grizzlies' trade for guard Luke Kennard. In two seasons with the team, he has averaged 10.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game.

Due to his history with head coach Ime Udoka, Kevin Durant may have some influence over his trade to the Rockets. Udoka, as an assistant coach with the Nets, grew close to Durant, a connection that many speculate factored into the Rockets’ decision to trade for Kevin, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.