The Phoenix Suns are reportedly widening the scope of their trade discussions involving Kevin Durant, with potential conversations extending beyond just the Golden State Warriors.
According to Marc Stein’s Substack report, the Suns have shown an increased willingness to explore trade scenarios for Durant that involve other teams, a shift in their approach to the 36-year-old superstar.
League sources suggest that one of the driving factors behind this uptick in Durant trade talks is Phoenix’s interest in acquiring Miami’s Jimmy Butler before the trade deadline on Thursday. It’s believed that trading Durant may be the key to making a deal for Butler possible, though the specific motivations behind this potential move remain unclear.
Despite a star-studded lineup featuring Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, the Suns have struggled to find consistent success this season. Currently sitting in 9th place in the Western Conference with a 25-24 record, Phoenix has failed to gel into a championship contender. The team’s struggles have prompted management to consider shaking up the roster.
Durant, a two-time NBA champion with the Warriors, has continued to perform at an elite level. Averaging 26.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 35.9 minutes per game this season, Durant remains one of the top players in the league. However, with Phoenix’s inability to translate star power into consistent wins, the front office may be looking to make a change in the hopes of sparking a turnaround.
Durant is in the third year of a four-year, $194 million contract and is set to earn $51 million this season. His contract status, paired with his continuing elite play, makes him one of the most valuable trade assets in the NBA. Yet, the Suns may be willing to part with him if it helps bring Butler into the fold, signaling a significant shift in the team’s future direction.
The idea of swapping Durant for Butler has raised questions around the league, especially since the Suns would be without their most reliable offensive weapon in Durant if such a trade were to go through. While no one has been able to provide a clear answer as to why the Suns would pursue Butler under these circumstances, the possibility of this blockbuster trade continues to loom large.
As the deadline approaches, the NBA world is watching closely. Durant’s potential departure from Phoenix could have significant ripple effects across the league, particularly if he were to return to the Warriors or join a new contender.
For now, all eyes are on the Suns as they explore their options, hoping that a bold move can put them back on the path to championship contention.
