Excitement builds as NBA free agency approaches in under three weeks, alongside the 2025 NBA draft in less than two weeks. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Kevin Durant has engaged in multiple discussions with the Phoenix Suns regarding potential trade scenarios. These talks have mainly focused on the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, and Minnesota Timberwolves, as reported by sources.
Additionally, several other teams are still considered contenders for a potential trade.
Consequently, five NBA insiders (Chris Herring, Zach Kram, Dave McMenamin, Kevin Pelton, and André Snellings) proposed plausible trades for the two-time Finals MVP. Front office specialist Bobby Marks assessed the proposals and highlighted the most suitable deal, focusing on how the Suns could reshape their costly, underachieving roster.
Latest on Durant’s future
Entering the final year of a four-year, $198 million contract signed with Brooklyn, Durant does not possess a no-trade clause like his teammate Bradley Beal. However, he still retains influence over his next destination.
“I want my career to end on my terms, that’s all I care about,” Durant expressed during a recent appearance on “The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis.” He emphasized his desire to choose his future path, having seen many players not get the same chance.
If a trade occurs, two factors will be crucial: Durant’s willingness to sign a two-year, $112 million extension with the acquiring team, along with whether that team is in a championship contending position. Given his age of 36, this could be Durant’s final chance for a third ring. — Marks
Trade Proposals
Kram’s proposal: The Rockets would receive Kevin Durant, while the Suns would land Dillon Brooks, Reed Sheppard, Cam Whitmore, Jock Landale, and future first-round picks in 2025 and 2027. This exchange could benefit both teams by fulfilling Houston’s need for a primary scorer and providing Phoenix with young talent and draft picks to facilitate future moves.
Pelton’s proposal: The Heat would obtain Durant while the Suns would receive Nikola Jovic, Andrew Wiggins, and first- and second-round picks. With this deal, Miami could enhance their chances of acquiring Durant while giving Phoenix a potential financial boost.
