The NBA world is absolutely buzzing with talk about Kevin Durant and whether he’s on his way out of Phoenix. Rumor has it, KD has some specific teams in mind for his next stop.
According to various reports, Durant’s top picks are the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets. These are apparently the spots where he’d be willing to commit for the long haul if he’s traded. However, the Suns have reportedly signaled that their priority is simply getting the best deal possible for the franchise, even if it means sending Durant somewhere not on his preferred list.
So, what might these potential trades actually look like? A bunch of different scenarios are being tossed around, involving both the teams Durant likes and others who might be interested.
Let’s break down some of the possibilities:
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are definitely considered a potential trade partner for Phoenix. One deal floating around involves sending Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and the 10th pick in the 2025 draft to the Suns. In return, the Rockets would land Durant and the 29th pick in the 2025 draft. But apparently, Houston isn’t too keen on meeting the Suns’ asking price.
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are another destination Durant is reportedly interested in playing for. A potential trade scenario involves Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and the 14th pick in the 2025 draft heading to Phoenix, with Durant going to San Antonio. However, reports suggest the Spurs are hesitant to give up a significant amount of their valuable draft assets.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are also high on Durant’s preferred list. A proposed trade could look something like this: Nikola Jovic, Andrew Wiggins, a 2025 first-round pick (via Golden State), a 2030 first-round pick (via Miami), and a 2026 second-round pick (via Lakers) going to the Suns, while Durant lands in Miami. Interestingly, some reports suggest that whether the Heat are willing to include Kel’el Ware could be a major factor in getting a deal done with Phoenix.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves have also popped up in trade talks. One idea involves Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, and Rob Dillingham going to the Suns for Durant. However, this is tricky because both teams are currently operating above the NBA’s second luxury tax apron, which complicates trades.
Los Angeles Clippers
The LA Clippers are reportedly showing interest in Durant as well. A potential package from them might include a group of players ready to contribute right away (like rotation wings) plus Ivica Zubac heading to Phoenix for KD.
Toronto Raptors
Don’t count out the Toronto Raptors either; they could be in the mix. A possible trade discussed involves R.J. Barrett, Jakob Poetl, Gradey Dick, and the 9th pick in the 2025 draft going to the Suns in exchange for Durant.
There’s a growing feeling that a Kevin Durant trade could actually happen pretty soon, maybe even before the NBA draft on June 25th.
What are the Suns really trying to achieve here? Their main goal in trading Durant is reportedly to get under that expensive second tax apron. On top of that, they’re hoping to bring back players who can start or contribute significantly, along with some valuable draft picks.
