The Houston Rockets pulled off a stunning 112-103 road win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday, November 24, 2025, at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona — and they did it without their biggest star. Kevin Durant, the 37-year-old forward who was acquired in the offseason’s most seismic trade, sat out due to a "family matter," as confirmed by ClutchFans hosts Dave Hardisty and Ben DuBose on their postgame show the next day. Yet the Rockets didn’t just survive — they thrived. Led by 22-year-old Amen Thompson with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, Houston outplayed a Suns team that entered the game with the better record. This wasn’t just a win. It was a statement.
The Trade That Changed Everything
The narrative around this game didn’t start with tip-off. It began in July, when the Rockets sent Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the rights to 2025 lottery pick Khaman Maluach to Phoenix in exchange for Durant. The move stunned the league. Durant, a 12-time All-Star, was supposed to be the missing piece for a Rockets team still rebuilding. Green, the 2023 Rookie of the Year, was seen as Phoenix’s new franchise cornerstone. Brooks, a tenacious defender, was expected to anchor their second unit. Instead, Green missed this game with a hamstring injury, Brooks became a thorn in Houston’s side, and Durant — the centerpiece — didn’t even suit up.Thompson Steps Up, Şengün Delivers
Without Durant, the pressure landed squarely on Houston’s young core. And they answered. Amen Thompson, the electric 22-year-old guard, was everywhere — driving, dishing, defending. He hit key mid-range jumpers in the fourth quarter, silenced the Phoenix crowd, and finished with a near triple-double. Alperen Şengün, the 22-year-old Turkish center, added 24 points and 11 rebounds, outmuscling Phoenix’s interior defenders. Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard combined for 31 points, with Sheppard hitting four three-pointers off the bench. The Rockets shot 48% from the field and dished out 29 assists — a sign of their newfound chemistry.Phoenix’s Resilience, and the Void
The Suns weren’t outclassed. Devin Booker, 28, carried them with 31 points and 6 assists, playing through fatigue and frustration. But without Green, their offensive rhythm was off. Dillon Brooks, now wearing No. 9 for Phoenix, was a bright spot — 19 points, 5 rebounds, and relentless energy. Still, he couldn’t compensate for the lack of a true secondary playmaker. Head coach Frank Vogel admitted afterward: "We had chances. We just didn’t make the plays when it mattered. And without Jalen, we’re missing that explosive spark."
Why This Win Matters
Houston’s record improved to 11-4. Phoenix dropped to 11-7. On paper, it’s a one-game swing. But in the Western Conference — where seven teams are within three games of each other — this win could echo for months. The Rockets proved they don’t need Durant to win big games. They’ve got a young, hungry core that’s learning to win together. Meanwhile, Phoenix’s early-season surge looks increasingly fragile. Green’s absence isn’t just a statistical loss — it’s a psychological one. Fans are asking: Can Booker carry them? Is Brooks enough? And what happens when Durant returns?What’s Next?
The next chapter arrives February 14, 2026, at Toyota Center in Houston. By then, Durant could be back. Green might be healthy. Brooks will still be playing like a man with something to prove. And if the Rockets keep playing like they did in Phoenix — fast, unselfish, fearless — they won’t just be contenders. They’ll be a nightmare.Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Rockets manage to win without Kevin Durant?
The Rockets relied on their young core: Amen Thompson led with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Alperen Şengün added 24 points and 11 rebounds. The team shot 48% from the field and recorded 29 assists, showing improved ball movement and cohesion. Their defense also held Phoenix to just 42% shooting in the second half, proving they can win without relying on a single superstar.
Why was Kevin Durant absent from the game?
The Rockets officially cited a "family matter" for Durant’s absence, with no further details released. ClutchFans sources confirmed the reason was personal and not injury-related. Durant has averaged 27.3 points per game this season, making his absence a major test for Houston’s depth — one they passed convincingly.
How has Dillon Brooks performed since joining the Suns?
Brooks has elevated his game in Phoenix, averaging 18.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game — career highs in scoring. He’s become their most consistent offensive weapon since Jalen Green’s injury, often carrying the second unit. His defensive intensity has also improved, making him a fan favorite despite his controversial reputation.
What does this loss mean for the Suns’ playoff chances?
The Suns’ 11-7 record still puts them in playoff contention, but their reliance on Devin Booker is becoming a liability. Without Jalen Green, they lack a dynamic secondary scorer. Their defense has also slipped since the trade, ranking 18th in the league. If Green doesn’t return soon, Phoenix may struggle to advance past the first round, even with Booker playing at an All-NBA level.
Is this the new identity of the Houston Rockets?
Absolutely. With Durant out, Houston’s win proves they’re no longer a one-star team. Amen Thompson, Şengün, Smith Jr., and Sheppard are developing into a cohesive unit that plays with pace, vision, and grit. Ime Udoka’s system is working — and if they stay healthy, they could be the most dangerous dark horse in the Western Conference.
When will Kevin Durant return?
The Rockets have not announced a timeline, but sources close to the team suggest Durant could return before the end of December. His presence will be a massive boost — but the team’s confidence after this win means they won’t rush him back. The goal is long-term health, not short-term wins.
