Kevin Durant’s future with the Phoenix Suns seems more uncertain than ever. Reports indicate that the 15-time All-Star was blindsided by his name being included in trade discussions last month. Now, with the offseason approaching, both Durant and the Suns appear ready to part ways—but at a hefty price.
According to NBA insider Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic, Phoenix has placed a high valuation on their superstar forward. Sources reveal that the Suns are demanding three first-round picks and a young player in return for Durant as part of a multi-team trade aimed at getting the team under the NBA’s second tax apron.
The Suns have significant motivation to prioritize draft capital, as they lack control over their first-round picks from 2024 to 2032. Additionally, the team is financially restricted due to luxury tax penalties, limiting their ability to build a competitive roster. Rankin reported that Phoenix ideally wants to take back around $35 million in salary, saving approximately $20 million to regain flexibility.
Potential Landing Spots for Kevin Durant
With such a steep asking price, only a handful of teams have the assets and willingness to make a move for the former MVP. The Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs have been identified as potential suitors due to their stash of first-round picks. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves have also emerged as a possible destination, given Durant’s relationship with their young star, Anthony Edwards.
Interestingly, reports suggest that Durant exercised his no-trade clause earlier this season to reject a move back to the Golden State Warriors, where he previously won two NBA championships. Despite this, insiders claim Durant has accepted the reality of an offseason trade, making his departure from Phoenix highly likely.
At 36 years old, Durant is still putting up elite numbers, averaging 26.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game this season. While some teams may hesitate at Phoenix’s price tag, others see Durant as the missing piece to a championship puzzle.
What’s Next for Durant?
Durant himself has hinted at how he envisions the final years of his career. Appearing on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, he expressed his desire to remain impactful in the league rather than just playing for the sake of it.
“I wanna still be nice, I don’t want to hang around just to hang around,” Durant said. “I can come off the bench in a Jamal Crawford-type of role.”
For now, the basketball world waits to see which team will be willing to meet the Suns’ sky-high asking price. Could a championship contender make a bold move? Or will Phoenix be forced to lower their demands? The NBA offseason is shaping up to be a wild ride, and Kevin Durant’s next chapter is at the center of it all.
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