NBA trade rumors continue to dominate the offseason landscape, and the future of Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant is at the forefront. While speculation about potential landing spots for the 15-time All-Star is rampant, reports suggest a notable disconnect between one aggressive suitor and Durant’s personal preference.
According to multiple reports, Kevin Durant reportedly has “no desire” to play for the Minnesota Timberwolves. This information comes amidst swirling trade talks as teams jockey to acquire the elite forward.
Durant’s Preferred Destinations
In contrast to the reported disinterest in Minnesota, sources indicate that Durant has a list of “preferred” trade destinations. These teams reportedly include the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs. Crucially, it’s reported that Durant would be willing to make a “long-term” commitment, potentially signing an extension, if traded to one of these specific franchises.
Adding another layer to Durant’s potential preferences, one report suggested he initially wanted to be traded to the New York Knicks. However, the Knicks reportedly have “no interest” in acquiring the star, potentially influenced by his age relative to their young, successful core that recently reached the Eastern Conference Finals.
Minnesota’s Aggressive Pursuit
Despite Durant’s reported reluctance regarding Minnesota, the Timberwolves are reportedly the “most aggressive” team currently engaged in trade discussions for the star. This persistent pursuit isn’t new for Minnesota, who reportedly also made a push to acquire Durant before the previous trade deadline.
Why the Timberwolves Are Pushing
The Timberwolves’ strong interest is reportedly driven by their need for a consistent second scoring option to complement rising superstar Anthony Edwards. Minnesota has reached the Western Conference Finals in back-to-back seasons but has fallen short of the NBA Finals, partly attributed to a lack of high-volume scoring beyond Edwards.
Edwards himself has publicly stated that Durant is his favorite player. Adding a dynamic scorer like Durant, who can operate at all three levels, could theoretically address Minnesota’s scoring needs. Last season, Edwards led the team, while only Julius Randle averaged over 15 points per game among other Timberwolves players.
The Suns’ Position and Market Dynamics
While Durant has expressed his preferences, the Phoenix Suns reportedly have a different priority. Coming off a disappointing 36-46 season where their star trio missed the playoffs, the Suns have reportedly made it “clear” to interested front offices that they are focused on getting the “best deal available for the franchise.” This means they are willing to trade Durant to any team, regardless of whether it’s on his preferred list, if that team offers the most appealing package of assets.
Reports suggest anywhere from six to eight teams have shown serious interest in Durant. The trade market appears active, with other teams like the Toronto Raptors reportedly making assets available (including the No. 9 overall draft pick). The LA Clippers were also mentioned, though reports indicate they are unwilling to part with key players like center Ivica Zubac, despite the Suns reportedly coveting him after his strong, All-Defensive season.
Contract Situation and Risk
A significant factor in any potential Durant trade is his contract status. He has just one year remaining on his current deal, valued at $54.7 million. Crucially, on July 6, he becomes eligible to receive a substantial two-year contract extension worth up to $122 million.
Trading for a player who has reportedly expressed disinterest in joining the team presents a considerable risk. His willingness to sign that lucrative, long-term extension could be negatively impacted if he’s sent somewhere he didn’t want to go, potentially making the acquiring team’s significant investment amount to just a single year of his services.
Durant’s Continued Elite Performance
Despite turning 37 in September and the Suns’ struggles in the 2024-25 season, Durant showed he can still perform at an elite level. Over 62 games, he averaged:
26.6 points
6.0 rebounds
4.2 assists
1.2 blocks
He maintained impressive shooting efficiency with splits of 52.7 percent from the field, 43.0 percent from three-point range, and 83.9 percent from the free-throw line. This performance highlights his continued value as a top-tier scorer and offensive force.
Conclusion
The Kevin Durant trade saga is shaping up to be one of the key storylines of the NBA offseason. While the Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly the most aggressive team pursuing the star, they face the challenge of his reported lack of desire to play there. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are prioritizing the best possible return, signaling they are open to sending him anywhere. This dynamic, coupled with Durant’s contract situation and eligibility for an extension, creates a complex scenario where a trade could happen, but potentially for a team not on his wishlist, raising questions about his long-term future with that franchise.
