“I just want to finish my career on my own terms — that’s all that matters.”
That’s how the 36-year-old superstar summed up his mindset during a recent appearance on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis. But it’s looking less and less likely that those final chapters will be written in Phoenix. According to multiple league sources and widespread reports, he and the Suns are expected to part ways this summer. With a year left on his contract and seeking an extension, he holds some leverage in shaping his next destination.
So who’s in the mix? According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, teams to watch include the Timberwolves, Heat, Knicks, Spurs, and Rockets.
“At the trade deadline back in February, I’m told there was mutual interest between Durant and teams like Minnesota, Miami, New York, San Antonio, and Houston,” Charania said on NBA Today. “I expect those teams—and maybe others—to revisit that interest this summer.”
It’s safe to assume more teams will at least explore the possibility of acquiring Durant.
Among those already mentioned, Miami and New York face tough challenges meeting Phoenix’s demands—likely involving salary-matching, three first-round picks, and a promising young player. Any deal could end up involving three or more teams. The Suns also want to shed salary to get below the second tax apron. In that sense, Houston and San Antonio are better equipped to deliver a package Phoenix might accept—if they decide going after Durant is worth it. Rockets GM Rafael Stone has expressed a desire to see how his roster performs in the playoffs before making major moves, while the Spurs have already signaled their intent to compete by adding De’Aaron Fox.
Golden State was also in the picture earlier this year and had progressed in talks before Durant reportedly shut down the idea of returning to the Bay Area. The Warriors have since shifted gears and are now targeting Jimmy Butler instead.
Meanwhile, Durant is reportedly open to signing a $122 million extension to stay in Phoenix, according to Logan Murdock of The Ringer. Though that scenario seems unlikely, it remains on the table.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia has been clear that he’s not interested in a full rebuild, despite the team’s disappointing season. His goal is a quick reset around Devin Booker—who, according to Ishbia, is not being shopped. Trading Durant could bring back the right mix of talent and draft assets to support that plan. A deal seems imminent—but where Durant lands is still up in the air.
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