The Phoenix Suns are intensifying Kevin Durant commerce discussions with a deal anticipated earlier than the NBA Draft. Three franchises have emerged as the first contenders: the Houston Rockets, Miami Warmth, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
In response to Shams Charania, the Suns have acquired curiosity from six to eight groups however have targeted latest conversations on the three frontrunners. Severe negotiations have developed over the previous 48 hours with a number of presents on the desk.
Durant’s contract state of affairs provides complexity to potential offers. The celebrity is getting into the ultimate 12 months of his present deal, incomes $54.7 million in 2025-26 earlier than turning into a free agent.
Durant’s expiring contract opens prospects for each contending groups looking for a championship rental and franchises prepared to supply long-term extensions. This dynamic mirrors the Toronto Raptors’ profitable 2018-19 gamble on Kawhi Leonard, which resulted in an NBA championship.
Groups pursuing Durant should weigh the danger of a one-year dedication towards the potential reward of including a generational expertise. His unrestricted free company standing in 2026-27 may appeal to surprising suitors prepared to make short-term strikes.
“There’s some severe traction on conversations, on commerce eventualities,” Charania mentioned on the Pat McAfee Present. “They’ve had about six to eight groups attain out. There’s been curiosity. There’s been some presents. There’s been some negotiation.”
The Suns seem motivated to finish a commerce rapidly, probably earlier than the NBA draft on Wednesday, June 25.
“However actually within the final 24 to 48 hours, I am informed, the main focus of the Suns’ conversations has been on a couple of of the groups,” Charania added. “The Houston Rockets, the Miami Warmth, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. These are the three groups proper now the place loads of the main focus lies.”
