Kevin Durant’s fate unclear, leverage still a factor

Jun 10, 2025 8:08 PM

Kevin Durant is widely expected to be on the move again this offseason, with the Phoenix Suns likely to explore trade possibilities for the veteran superstar.

While the specifics of when and where remain uncertain, league insiders anticipate action soon.

Phoenix reportedly fielded offers for Durant before the most recent trade deadline, but he exercised his influence to block a potential reunion with the Golden State Warriors, signaling that he still intends to shape his narrative.

Durant still has one year remaining on his current contract, which may give him limited leverage to sway where he lands.

That said, the Suns are under no obligation to send him to a preferred destination, particularly if a team is willing to take him on as a short-term asset, even without a commitment beyond next season.

“I expect them to look into the Durant trade market pretty soon,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said during an appearance on Get Up.

“There are going to be a handful of teams that have interest in Durant. The key with Durant is this: he has one year left on his contract. Is he going to want to sign an extension? Is he going to want to be a part of the process of the trade? And are the Suns going to let him be involved in the process? That’s a key factor going forward.”

Durant’s voice has carried significant weight in past trade negotiations. When he requested a move from the Brooklyn Nets in 2022, he identified the Phoenix Suns as his top choice, with the Miami Heat also on his list.

Though Brooklyn initially hesitated to move him, the deal was eventually completed at the 2023 trade deadline after new Suns owner Mat Ishbia stepped in and agreed to the Nets’ steep demands.

The question now is whether Durant and his longtime business partner, Rich Kleiman, can exert the same level of influence this time around.

With the Suns potentially ready to pivot in a new direction, this offseason will serve as a crucial test of how much control Durant truly has over his career at this stage.