The New York Knicks are not planning to trade for Kevin Durant, according to a report by Stefan Bondy of the New York Post.
Despite recent national reporting linking the franchise to the 15-time All-Star, a league source told the Post that the Knicks are not involved in trade discussions for the veteran forward.
Durant, 36, is expected to be dealt by the Phoenix Suns this offseason. The organization is working with Durant and his longtime manager, Rich Kleiman, to explore destinations before the June 25 NBA Draft.
ESPN previously listed New York among five teams with reported interest in acquiring the former MVP. However, Bondy’s reporting indicates that the Knicks have no intention of pursuing Durant at this stage of his career.
New York was heavily involved in Durant’s 2019 free agency, but the two-time Finals MVP ultimately signed with the Brooklyn Nets. He missed the entire 2019–20 season after suffering a torn Achilles in the 2019 NBA Finals with Golden State.
At the time, Durant’s father, Wayne, reportedly urged him to join the Knicks. Instead, Durant spent three and a half seasons with Brooklyn before being traded to Phoenix in 2023.
The Suns finished the 2024–25 season with a 36–46 record and missed the playoffs. Following their early exit and coaching changes, the franchise is reportedly shifting toward a rebuild.
Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists over 75 games this past season. He remains under contract, and multiple teams are expected to engage in serious negotiations with Phoenix.
Toronto has emerged as a legitimate contender in the Durant sweepstakes. The Raptors possess valuable draft capital and young players such as Scottie Barnes and Gradey Dick.
San Antonio has also been mentioned as a possible landing spot. Reportedly, Durant recently referenced the Spurs in a private discussion regarding his future.
The Knicks, meanwhile, are entering a pivotal offseason after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. Following their elimination by the Indiana Pacers, the franchise dismissed head coach Tom Thibodeau on June 3.
New York finished third in the Eastern Conference with a 51–31 record and is expected to remain aggressive this summer, though not in the Durant market.
