As the NBA Draft approaches, trade talks are heating up. Kevin Durant remains a central figure in the conversation, with reports indicating his preferences and the Suns’ approach.
Here’s a breakdown of the latest rumors and key developments in the NBA trade market.
Durant’s Preferences: Spurs Over Timberwolves, Suns Seeking Better Offers
Kevin Durant’s Trade Preferences
Kevin Durant is reportedly interested in playing for the San Antonio Spurs. Although he’s open to extensions with teams like Miami, Houston, and San Antonio, it’s the Spurs that Durant is most drawn to, according to reports from The Athletic’s Sam Amick and Jon Krawczynski.
A fit with Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox could push the Spurs into title contention quickly, creating a strong pairing in the West.
However, San Antonio’s plans might lean more toward building around their youth and keeping their draft picks, like Dylan Harper, who they may target at No. 2.
Phoenix’s Position
The Phoenix Suns are currently in talks with Durant’s agent, Rich Kleiman, but have yet to find a trade that satisfies them.
The Suns have turned down offers from both the Spurs and Rockets for not meeting their expectations, especially after a Jabari Smith-centered proposal from Houston. Phoenix is exploring other deals, but as of now, nothing compelling has surfaced.
Minnesota’s Interest, Durant’s Rejection
Though the Minnesota Timberwolves are interested in Durant, the star has reportedly shown no desire to play for the team. Durant’s reluctance to join Minnesota has complicated potential trades involving players like Rudy Gobert or Julius Randle.
Minnesota is eager to bring Durant to pair with Anthony Edwards, but Durant’s preference clearly leans elsewhere.
Suns Prioritize Return Over Durant’s Wishes
The Suns are focused on getting the best return in any trade involving Durant, despite his preferences. Reports indicate the Suns would rather secure impact players to compete now, rather than just draft picks, even if it means not fulfilling Durant’s top choice.
Marc Stein and The Athletic both confirmed that Phoenix’s main goal is to build a strong roster around Devin Booker.
Other Trade Rumors: Grizzlies, Heat, and Bulls Making Moves
Grizzlies Stand Pat on Morant and Jackson
Despite rumors following the Desmond Bane trade, the Memphis Grizzlies have made it clear they have no intention of moving stars like Ja Morant or Jaren Jackson Jr.
The team plans to retool around Morant and is aiming to retain Jackson, who has been a key player for them. Memphis is not interested in trading away any of its cornerstone pieces, contrary to some speculations.
Heat and Bulls Watching Kuminga’s Market
Both the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls are reportedly monitoring the Jonathan Kuminga situation. If the Heat miss out on bigger stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant, they may pivot to a sign-and-trade for Kuminga.
Similarly, the Bulls could look to add him to pair with Josh Giddey. While the market for Kuminga remains quiet, both teams are still keeping an eye on any potential moves.
Free Agency Updates: Gary Harris and Cory Joseph
In the wake of the Desmond Bane trade, the Orlando Magic have declined the team options for Gary Harris and Cory Joseph, making both players free agents.
Their availability could open opportunities for other teams to add veteran depth to their rosters, depending on what roles these two can fill moving forward.
Cavs Struggle to Trade Isaac Okoro
Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly struggling to find a suitor for Isaac Okoro. The 6.1 points-per-game scorer has two years and $22.8 million left on his contract, and while the Cavs are open to moving him, there isn’t much interest from other teams unless the Cavaliers offer additional assets.
Okoro’s fit with Cleveland is under scrutiny, and other teams aren’t keen on taking on his contract without added incentives.
Notable Rumors Recap
- Kevin Durant prefers San Antonio Spurs but is also open to Miami and Houston.
- The Phoenix Suns are looking for better trade offers than those from Spurs or Rockets.
- Minnesota Timberwolves interested in Durant, but Durant doesn’t want to play for them.
- Memphis Grizzlies confirm they are not trading Ja Morant or Jaren Jackson Jr..
- Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls monitoring the situation with Jonathan Kuminga for a potential sign-and-trade.
- Orlando Magic decline options for Gary Harris and Cory Joseph, making them free agents.
- Cleveland Cavaliers struggling to trade Isaac Okoro, despite his contract situation.
