What happened: Houston traded Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green to Phoenix in the seven-team deal that brought Kevin Durant to the Rockets. Brooks then averaged a 2 points for the Suns while shooting 34.4% from three.

Why it matters: Brooks handled difficult perimeter assignments, leaving Thompson freer to disrupt passing lanes and protect from the weak side. His departure also removed a secondary creator from Houston's wing rotation.

What to watch: Houston will test whether Marcus Smart can take the toughest perimeter matchups and restore Thompson's roaming role in 2026-27.