Kevin Durant Distressed After Leaked Chats Criticize Teammates

Private messages disparage Devin Booker, Russell Westbrook, and others, sparking NBA controversy

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant appeared visibly unsettled following the leak of private chats allegedly revealing disparaging remarks about his teammates, including Devin Booker. The leaked screenshots suggest Durant's private messages criticized players such as Russell Westbrook, Alperen Sengun, and Booker, leading to speculation about the origin of the messages and the potential impact on the Rockets' team dynamics.

Why it matters

The controversy threatens to create friction within the Rockets' locker room as the team aims to secure a strong playoff position. Durant's apparent frustrations with key teammates could undermine the team's cohesion just as the playoffs approach, potentially impacting their success in the coming months.

The details

The exposed conversations include heated critiques of former teammates and associates, including Russell Westbrook, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. Durant's messages defended Kyrie Irving while dismissively referencing Westbrook's achievements. The leaked chats also labeled Booker and Suns coach Frank Vogel as 'two dictators,' reflecting internal tensions during Durant's short and reportedly tumultuous time in Phoenix.

  • On February 16, 2026, just before the NBA All-Star Game, the controversy unfolded at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California.
  • Durant was seen anxiously focused on his phone during the All-Star events, sparking speculation that the Devin Booker NBA controversy was weighing heavily on him.

The players

Kevin Durant

A forward for the Houston Rockets who is at the center of the controversy after private chats allegedly revealing disparaging remarks about his teammates were leaked.

Devin Booker

A player who was allegedly criticized in the leaked private chats, sparking a major NBA controversy.

Russell Westbrook

A former teammate of Durant's who was also allegedly criticized in the leaked private chats, reflecting their strained relationship dating back to their time with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Alperen Sengun

A younger teammate of Durant's on the Houston Rockets who was allegedly criticized in the leaked private chats for his shooting, playmaking, and defense.

Jabari Smith Jr.

A younger teammate of Durant's on the Houston Rockets who was allegedly insulted with harsh language in the leaked private chats.

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What they’re saying

“I been cooked on Twitter enough to know that look KD got. He SPOOKED. On the phone in between games is nuts lol”

— Andrew Leezus, Social media user (Twitter)

“KD new burner got exposed 😭 Why is bro talking sh*t about all his teammates 💀”

— LakeShowYo, Social media user (Twitter)

What’s next

The Houston Rockets organization and Kevin Durant will need to address the fallout from the leaked private chats, as the team aims to maintain unity and focus ahead of the playoffs.

The takeaway

This controversy highlights the challenges NBA players face in maintaining team chemistry and public image, especially when private communications become public. The Rockets will need to carefully manage this situation to ensure it does not disrupt their on-court performance in the crucial stretch run of the season.