PHOENIX –Since the NBA trade deadline, it has been a foregone conclusion that the Phoenix Suns are forced to trade superstar Kevin Durant this offseason. After putting the 15-time All-Star in trade talks without discussing it with him, Phoenix and Durant’s relationship plummeted, and add in the disappointing season it spells for a major breakup.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!However, Clutch Points’ Brett Siegel explained that despite the animosity between the two, the Suns want to keep Durant around.
Mar 26, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts after a foul call against the Boston Celtics during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Siegel on Suns and Durant’s relationship:
“The Suns don’t necessarily want to make Durant available in trade talks and see him depart the desert, but this situation may be out of their control at this point,” Siegel said. “With this said, there is still no certainty surrounding how this situation will play out. Can relationships be repaired in this situation? Will Durant ultimately request a trade? There are many questions presenting themselves in Phoenix, which is why Durant is the most talked about player among league personnel inching closer to the offseason.”
Mar 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) and forward Kevin Durant (35) confront Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13) during the third quarter at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The franchise is determined to build a contending roster around cornerstone piece Devin Booker. So, if Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause holds them back, they must pivot to trading Durant. Siegel further discussed that Phoenix and Durant once had a close relationship before the NBA trade deadline debacle “tarnished” it.
The Suns were so determined to get Jimmy Butler in the Valley that it clouded their judgment about the consequences that would follow. Phoenix is starting to feel those repercussions, with Durant likely wanting out. That wouldn’t be in the team’s best interest, as the roster is 13-5 with Beal out and Durant and Booker playing.
The clear answer for the franchise is to trade Beal this offseason, but it likely won’t be able to because of his contract. This now leads to something the Suns don’t want to do and trade Durant for assets to help begin the rebuild.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
