PHOENIX – Kevin Durant’s time in Phoenix may be nearing its end, but the direction of the franchise hangs in the balance.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Suns have fielded trade calls for the 15-time All-Star all summer, with multiple reports suggesting a deal is imminent. But despite Durant’s star power, Phoenix has been underwhelmed by the offers. One legitimate trade partner emerged in the Minnesota Timberwolves, who reportedly offered Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, Rob Dillingham, and the No. 17 pick. The Suns were ready to accept, that’s until Durant made it clear he wouldn’t play in Minnesota.
That’s not the first time he’s vetoed a deal. At the trade deadline, Durant rejected a reunion with the Golden State Warriors. And now, the question becomes: How much loyalty do the Suns owe a 36-year-old star?
Mar 26, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) looks on against the Boston Celtics during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Balancing respect with reality
Phoenix is working closely with Durant’s agent and business partner Rich Kleiman. Durant has named the Rockets, Spurs, and Heat as his preferred destinations, three teams in no-state-tax areas that would keep more of his $54.7 million salary intact. The problem? None have offered a competitive package.
General manager Brian Gregory now faces a pivotal decision: honor Durant’s wish list, or prioritize a long-term rebuild for a team that went 36-46 and has no first-round picks in sight.
Jun 10, 2025; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5g Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Gregory will likely want to fulfill Durant’s wishes, as players around the league will notice how the franchise handle the situation. Trading Durant to his desire team shows that Gregory and the front office is player’s friendly, influencing any potential free agent more likely to consider Phoenix.
Regardless, the Suns have to make the future of the team top priority, after coming off an embarrassing 36-46 season. Phoenix doesn’t have control of any of its foreseeable draft picks, while oabove the second apron of the salary cap. The eventual Durant trade will be the most important trade for the franchise in over a decade. Gregory will need to find a package that’ll satisfy the fans and superstar guard Devin Booker desire to stay competitive
Suns fans react to Devin Booker’s 3 right before halftime that tied Game 2 vs. the Clippers, 59-59. Syndication: Arizona Republic
There is no clear answer on what the franchise should do in the coming weeks regarding Durant. Gregory and his staff’s decision and what deal they take will set the Suns course for the next decade: Accept a deal on a discount to save face around the league or maximize the value on your top trade target?
Suns Durant shoots down Timberwolves trade, no interest in playing for Minnesota
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
