Kevin Durant is unlikely to consider Minnesota as a potential landing spot this summer, despite the Timberwolves being involved in trade discussions with the Phoenix Suns, according to NBA insider Shams Charania.
Appearing on SportsCenter, Charania reported that the Suns are actively exploring a trade involving the 15-time All-Star, with conversations focusing on the Heat, Rockets, and Timberwolves. However, Durant reportedly has “no desire to be in Minnesota.”
The 36-year-old forward prefers destinations such as Miami, Houston, and San Antonio, all of which have been in varying levels of contact with Phoenix’s front office. Durant’s business partner Rich Kleiman has also been involved in helping guide the process.
Charania emphasized that Durant’s $54.7 million expiring contract is a key variable in any potential move. While Phoenix is engaging with multiple teams, its priority remains securing the best possible return, not necessarily aligning with the veteran’s personal preferences.
The Timberwolves finished the regular season with a 49–33 record and were the No. 6 seed in the West. Minnesota advanced to the Western Conference Finals before being eliminate by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite their success, they are not on Durant’s shortlist of preferred destinations, which limits their leverage in negotiations.
The Miami Heat are emerging as the strongest contender, according to Marc Stein. The franchise reportedly remains in “legitimate pursuit” of Durant and is believed to be constructing a package that could include win-now assets and draft capital.
Stein noted that Miami already made attempts to acquire Durant at the trade deadline and resumed talks once the offseason began. The Suns are reportedly open to completing a deal before the June 25 NBA Draft.
San Antonio has also shown interest but is unwilling to include key pieces such as Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle or the No. 2 overall pick. Phoenix, meanwhile, is seeking a mix of youth, picks, and cap flexibility as it prepares for a roster overhaul.
Houston, the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed, is another strong option. The Rockets boast a deep young core and enough assets to make a competitive offer. However, it’s unclear whether Phoenix values their proposal as highly as Miami’s.
Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 75 games last season, maintaining his efficiency despite Phoenix missing the playoffs and finishing 11th in the West.
While Minnesota and Toronto have been linked as interested parties, neither team is seen as a serious threat to land Durant due to his lack of interest and their positioning outside his preferred destinations.
