Kevin Durant could soon be on the move for the fourth time in his career. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, and Minnesota Timberwolves have submitted final trade offers to the Phoenix Suns. Talks have intensified in the past 48 hours, with those three teams becoming the main focus.
Other Interested Teams: Spurs, Knicks, and More
Earlier in the week, Charania also reported that the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks expressed interest. In total, six to eight teams are seriously involved. However, the Suns reportedly intend to make the best deal for their franchise, regardless of Durant’s preferences.
Durant’s Contract Situation Adds Complexity
Durant, 37 in September, is entering the final year of his contract, worth $54.7 million. He becomes eligible for a two-year, $122 million extension on July 6. If he waits six months after a trade, the extension could reach $124 million. That looming decision is influencing how teams approach a potential trade.
Could a Team Bet on Itself?
Charania compared the situation to Kawhi Leonard’s 2018 trade to Toronto, where the Raptors took a risk despite knowing he might not re-sign. Durant’s case might play out similarly, with a team banking on short-term success and hoping to win him over later.
Timberwolves Lead the Chase – For Now
Multiple reports, including The Ringer’s Zach Lowe, indicate that Minnesota is the most aggressive suitor. A rumored deal could include Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, and draft picks. Oddsmakers have even placed the Timberwolves as the betting favorites to land Durant.
Wild Cards in the Mix
While Miami and Houston have strong assets, Toronto remains a potential dark horse. The Raptors have done this before with Leonard and reportedly considered Durant in 2022. Given their current roster needs and lack of superstar availability, they could take another swing.
Durant’s Preferred Destinations Revealed Late
Durant’s supposed list of preferred destinations—the Heat, Rockets, and Spurs—was revealed just as trade talks ramped up. Some speculate it was a tactical move to discourage less appealing teams from pursuing him, a strategy he has used before (such as during the failed Warriors return attempt).
Durant’s age and injury history make a long-term investment risky. For some teams, acquiring him on a one-year rental might be smarter than overpaying for his age-38 and -39 seasons. In that light, his expiring contract may actually appeal to cap-conscious franchises.
Trade Could Be High-Profile Cap Dump
In Minnesota’s case, moving Gobert’s expensive contract in exchange for one year of Durant could function as a cap-clearing maneuver, even if Durant leaves. It also lets the team make a title run without long-term financial entanglement.
Raptors Could Recreate the Kawhi Formula
Toronto’s previous success with Leonard sets a precedent. They could view the Durant trade as another low-risk, high-reward opportunity. If the price is reasonable—especially compared to the massive haul Phoenix paid in 2023—some teams may believe it’s worth the gamble.
Houston and San Antonio Could Dominate—If They Want To
The Rockets and Spurs have enough young talent and picks to outbid anyone. But they might hold off, choosing to pursue younger stars or build patiently. Their hesitance could open the door for more desperate or risk-tolerant franchises.
Even if he’s traded somewhere he doesn’t prefer, Durant is likely to play hard, as he did in Brooklyn in 2022. Still, any team trading for him must balance his professionalism against the real possibility of a one-year rental.
Final Verdict: Suns Hold the Cards
Durant may have a preference, but the Suns will decide his fate based on the best deal available. His expiring contract, age, and performance level make him both a valuable short-term asset and a long-term risk. That dynamic is creating one of the most fascinating trade markets in years.
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