The Phoenix Suns are expected to trade Kevin Durant this summer after exploring deals before the deadline, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
Despite Durant’s status as a two-time NBA champion and one of the league’s elite players, he was unaware of the team’s trade discussions. Speaking on Get Up, Windhorst said that the expectation around the NBA is that Durant will be moved in the offseason.
“He’s probably going to get traded this summer,” Windhorst said. “He knows it. The Suns know it. The rest of the league knows it. They’re going to enjoy him while they have him. It’s not really controversial in all honesty.”
Phoenix entered the season as a contender but has struggled despite a high payroll. The team is under .500 and carries a $230 million payroll, with over $100 million in luxury tax penalties.
Durant, in the third year of a four-year, $194 million deal, has one guaranteed season left on his contract after this one. Windhorst suggested that the Suns and Durant could work together to determine his next destination.
“While I would never make an ironclad prediction, I would expect Durant and the Suns this summer to work together to find a new home,” Windhorst added. “He has one year left on his contract, which would give him control as to where that would be.”
Durant, 36, remains one of the league’s most productive scorers, averaging 27.1 points, six rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. However, the Suns have dropped five of their last six games and currently sit 11th in the Western Conference.
On Tuesday, Durant made history by becoming the eighth player in NBA history to reach 30,000 career points. He achieved the milestone in the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies, finishing with 34 points in a 119-112 loss.
Phoenix, missing Bradley Beal due to injury, struggled to contain Memphis’ balanced attack. Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 26 points, while Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. combined for 37 points. Memphis also dominated the boards, outrebounding the Suns 60-42.
Despite strong performances from players like Bol Bol, who had 18 points and 14 rebounds, the Suns have been unable to find consistent success. Their struggles have fueled speculation that significant roster changes could be on the way.
As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Phoenix and whether the franchise ultimately decides to move on from Durant.
