If the Phoenix Suns had their choice, they would have traded Kevin Durant to the Golden State Warriors before the trade deadline. Ultimately, Durant vetoed that move and stayed for the remainder of the season, but this incident marked a significant rift in his relationship with the team. When an organization attempts to trade a player of Durant’s caliber without his consent, it usually leads to irreparable damage in the relationship.
While there might be room for reconciliation, the Suns’ situation raises questions about its viability. Over two and a half years with Durant, the team’s performance has consistently declined. They suffered a six-game loss to Denver in the 2023 playoffs, were swept by Minnesota in the first round in 2024, and failed to qualify for the postseason this year. Currently, the state of the Suns suggests that preservation may not be the best course. With Bradley Beal holding a no-trade clause, the Suns can’t count on him for improvements. It may be prudent for the Suns to consider trading Devin Booker and embarking on a full rebuild, although owner Mat Ishbia has publicly stated that this will “never happen.”
At this stage, Phoenix lacks appealing role players to trade and has little promising young talent. They have exhausted their first-round picks, leaving only two heavily protected selections obtained in a poorly executed swap with the Jazz. For major changes to occur, Durant remains the only viable option.
Is a Durant Trade Inevitable?
The prevailing sentiment following the trade deadline is that Phoenix will indeed trade Durant. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst expressed this conviction emphatically in March. While owner Ishbia hasn’t directly stated that Durant would be moved, he has mentioned the Suns may need to “pivot and reload” around Booker, who is seen as the long-term franchise player. Interestingly, recent reports have been scant despite the offseason approaching, with no indications of meetings between Durant and the team, unlike discussions surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. It appears the relationship has soured, and the Suns lack other avenues for significant changes. A trade is likely, though not confirmed.
What Do the Suns Seek from a Durant Trade?
In essence, the Suns are aiming for “everything.” They sacrificed four first-round picks to acquire Durant, and Mikal Bridges, who was also part of the trade, yielded five first-round picks in a subsequent deal with the Knicks. All told, Phoenix relinquished significant draft capital to bring Durant on board. According to a report from the Arizona Republic’s Duane Rankin, the Suns are looking for three first-round picks and a young player in any trade involving Durant. Given Durant’s age, this request may be quite ambitious.
What Does Durant Want from a Trade?
Determining Durant’s preferences is more complex. He mentioned in February, during an appearance on the Draymond Green Show, that he wants his career to conclude on his terms. At 37 years old and on an expiring contract, he holds considerable leverage and can easily veto a deal. The crucial question is where he would wish to go. It seems unlikely a return to Golden State is on the cards, considering past events, and a move back to Oklahoma City appears improbable due to negative past experiences.
Which Teams Are Likely Candidates?
Durant isn’t a younger MVP candidate like Giannis Antetokounmpo; his age and expiring contract make him a different trade prospect, yet this could open doors for numerous teams to pursue him. In April, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported mutual interest from Durant with five teams: the Timberwolves, Knicks, Spurs, Heat, and Rockets. These teams could return as interested parties this offseason as well.
Durant is an incredibly valuable asset and should attract significant interest across the league. Ultimately, his preferences will likely shape the final outcome of any trade discussions.
