Vernon Maxwell has never been shy about giving his opinion, and when it comes to Kevin Durant’s next chapter with the Houston Rockets, the former NBA guard believes it’s a strong move.
Maxwell, who won two championships with Houston during the Hakeem Olajuwon era, spoke about the blockbuster trade on the season three finale of Scoop B Selects, hosted by Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson.
Known during his playing career as “Mad Max” for his fiery personality and clutch shooting, Maxwell now delivers his trademark honesty in front of the mic.
“I think it’s a great addition, man,” Maxwell said of Durant joining the Rockets. “I’m sorry for Jalen [Green] and Dillon ‘The Villain’ [Brooks]… but I think it was a good trade for both teams. The Rockets need a guy they can roll it out to and get a bucket in the playoffs, and now they got that guy. It’s going to be an interesting year.”
Durant’s arrival gives Houston a proven scorer and veteran presence alongside young talent like Alperen Şengün, who Maxwell believes will mesh well with the former MVP. “Şengün is a very smart player, a high IQ player and KD is too,” Maxwell explained. “I think they’ll mesh well together… they’re pros. They know how to play together.”
While Maxwell sees the Rockets as contenders, he stopped short of crowning them instant title favorites. “I think contender… but not… I don’t think championship yet,” he said. “We gotta get a couple more pieces but we’re knockin’ on the door. We’re close, so I’m looking forward to it.”
The conversation also touched on the state of the NBA today. Maxwell praised Anthony Edwards for his intensity, compared Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential fit in Toronto versus Miami, and once again highlighted Olajuwon’s unmatched footwork.
But when the discussion turned back to Houston, his focus stayed on Durant’s ability to elevate a franchise that hasn’t reached the Finals since his own playing days.