Kevin Durant might be the next superstar in the center of the NBA’s trade rumor mill, and it’s clear that no one is immune to the chaos of today’s blockbuster trade landscape. Just 1.5 seasons after landing in Phoenix to form a superteam alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, reports are surfacing that the Suns are quietly exploring options for Durant.
It’s a shocking twist but not entirely surprising—when you go all-in on big names and max contracts, the clock starts ticking the moment things don’t click. Durant remains one of the most lethal offensive forces in the game, averaging 29.1 points per game this season on 51.8% shooting. He is also under contract for next season ($54,708,608) before he hits free agency in 2026.
But at 35, without having enough impact to make the Suns a title contender right now, his value lies in landing with a team that can both contend immediately and maximize his championship window. The Suns, who are struggling to find chemistry and depth after gutting their roster to build a Big Three, may be realizing their experiment has hit the ceiling.
So where could KD go? Whether it’s a reunion with former teams or joining new contenders with flexibility and assets, we’re breaking down the five best destinations for Kevin Durant—teams that make sense for both the superstar and the Suns. It’s a high-stakes scenario that could once again alter the league’s balance of power, and one thing is certain: wherever KD goes, fireworks are sure to follow.
1. Golden State Warriors
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, Kevon Looney, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
A Kevin Durant reunion in Golden State might feel like deja vu, but it makes perfect basketball sense for both sides which is why some smoke could turn to fire on potential trade rumors. For the Warriors, Durant’s arrival would reignite their dynasty aspirations, reuniting him with Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Steve Kerr.
Durant thrived in Steve Kerr’s system during his previous stint, seamlessly fitting into their ball-movement-heavy offense while maintaining his status as a dominant scorer. This season, Durant is averaging 26.9 points on 52.4% shooting, proving he’s still an elite offensive weapon. Adding him would make the Warriors instant favorites in the West, especially as they seek to maximize Curry’s prime years.
For the Suns, this trade brings them significant depth and flexibility and it could be time for them to look elsewhere instead of the endless and difficult chase for Jimmy Butler. Andrew Wiggins is a proven two-way wing (17.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG) who can complement Booker and Beal, while Jonathan Kuminga adds athleticism and upside at forward.
Kevon Looney brings toughness and rebounding (6.9 RPG)—an area the Suns have lacked—and Buddy Hield provides floor-spacing (36.6% 3-PT FG). Phoenix also secures two valuable first-round picks, giving them future assets to rebuild or move in subsequent deals.
The question, of course, is whether Durant would want to return to the Bay Area after his contentious exit in 2019. While time heals all wounds, Durant’s previous frustrations over not receiving enough credit for the Warriors’ success could resurface. Still, this move aligns with both teams’ timelines and needs, making it a fascinating possibility.
2. New York Knicks
Proposed Trade Details
New York Knicks Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Miles McBride, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap (NYK), 2025 Second-Round Pick (BOS/MEM), 2026 Second-Round Pick (GSW)
The New York Knicks are desperate for a superstar, and Kevin Durant could finally be the answer to their decades-long title drought. Durant in Madison Square Garden would be electric, giving the Knicks a true scoring machine who can take over games in the playoffs.
Pairing Durant with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns creates a legitimate Big Three, while OG Anunoby can continue developing alongside KD. Durant’s ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with Brunson’s playmaking, would elevate New York’s offense from good to elite.
From the Suns’ perspective, this package offers a mix of nostalgia and utility. Getting Mikal Bridges back—one of the league’s best 3-and-D players (18.2 PPG, 3.3 APG) when he is playing well—would instantly bolster their defense and chemistry, given his history with Booker and Phoenix.
Josh Hart adds versatility and all-around play (14.3 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 5.8 APG), while Miles McBride provides backcourt depth (9.3 PPG). The inclusion of pick swaps and second-rounders gives the Suns additional flexibility, though it’s not the flashiest return for a player of Durant’s caliber.
The challenge here is whether Durant would see the Knicks as a place to see out his own career. While the Garden’s allure is undeniable, the Knicks might not be where Durant would want to play considering he looked past them during his free agency period in 2017. However, if the Knicks can pull off a trade, they would be the favorites in the Eastern Conference right alongside the Boston Celtics.
3. Miami Heat
Proposed Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: Kevin Durant, Grayson Allen
Phoenix Suns Receive: Jimmy Butler, Duncan Robinson, Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., 2030 First-Round Pick (MIA)
The Miami Heat landing Kevin Durant feels like a match made in basketball heaven, considering Durant loves to play basketball more than anything and that could be refreshing amid the never-ending Jimmy Butler drama. Miami thrives on star power and competitive fire, and Durant would fit perfectly into Erik Spoelstra’s system alongside All-Stars Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
His offensive versatility—combined with the Heat’s elite defense—would immediately elevate them into title contention. Grayson Allen, included in the deal, would also bolster Miami’s shooting, giving them an additional floor spacer.
Meanwhile, the Suns get their targeted star in Jimmy Butler (17.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.8 APG), whose playoff heroics are well-documented. Butler may not match Durant’s scoring prowess, but his leadership and ability to take over games in critical moments would help keep Phoenix competitive alongside Devin Booker in a new-look roster that can be built on defense.
Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr. provide intriguing young talent with upside, while Duncan Robinson could rediscover his form in a new environment. The 2028 first-round pick gives Phoenix an additional future asset to either keep or trade.
The risk here lies in Durant’s relationship with the Heat’s demanding culture. Miami’s “no excuses” ethos could conflict with Durant’s reputation for preferring environments where he can focus purely on basketball. But if Durant buys in, this trade would make the Heat the favorites in the Eastern Conference, setting up an epic showdown with the likes of Boston or Milwaukee.
4. Houston Rockets
Proposed Trade Details
Houston Rockets Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Dillon Brooks, Reed Sheppard, Jabari Smith Jr., 2025 First-Round Pick (PHX), 2025 First-Round Pick (HOU), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHX)
The Rockets swinging for Kevin Durant would signal they’re ready to accelerate their rebuild and become contenders in the West. Durant, paired with Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, and Amen Thompson would give Houston an elite Big Four capable of scoring in bunches and defending at a high level.
Durant’s presence would also fast-track the development of young players like Alperen Sengun, who could benefit from KD’s leadership and spacing. The Rockets would instantly go from rebuilding to playoff-caliber, injecting life into a fanbase eager for relevance.
For the Suns, this deal is all about future potential. Jabari Smith Jr., a versatile forward with a defensive upside and a developing offensive game (11.9 PPG, 6.5 RPG), could become a cornerstone piece.
Dillon Brooks, while polarizing, provides defensive toughness and a fiery edge (13.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG)—something Phoenix has lacked since trading Jae Crowder. Adding three first-round picks gives the Suns the assets they need to retool their roster or package for another star down the line.
The big question is whether Durant sees Houston as a desirable destination. While the Rockets have a promising core, they’re still young and unproven, and it’s unclear if Durant has the patience for another project. This deal could make sense for Phoenix, but convincing KD to commit might be a tougher sell.
5. Washington Wizards
Proposed Trade Details
Washington Wizards Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Jordan Poole, Alex Sarr, Jonas Valanciunas, 2026 First-Round Pick (WAS), 2028 First-Round Pick (WAS)
A move to the Wizards would be a sentimental homecoming for Kevin Durant, who grew up in the D.C. area. Joining Washington would give Durant a chance to finish his career in front of a hometown crowd, while also helping elevate a struggling franchise desperate for relevance. The Wizards would have a respectable core with Kyle Kuzma and Durant, giving them a shot at the playoffs in the East if the rest of the roster can step up.
For Phoenix, this trade prioritizes depth and future flexibility. Jordan Poole is posting 20.3 points per game this season and can play point guard alongside Devin Booker or come off the bench as a sixth man. He is 25 years old so there is plenty of time for him to reach another level. Jonas Valanciunas adds size and rebounding, addressing one of the Suns’ biggest weaknesses.
Alex Sarr, a promising young prospect (11.5 PPG, 6.6 RPG), gives Phoenix a developmental piece who could become a key contributor in the future as he gets to play with a superstar in Booker. With two first-round picks included, the Suns also ensure they’re well-positioned to rebuild or pivot in the years ahead.
While the emotional appeal of Durant returning home is undeniable, it’s hard to see this as a move that keeps him in the title conversation. The Wizards, even with KD, lack the supporting cast and organizational stability to truly contend. For Durant, this would be more about legacy and loyalty than chasing championships if he wants to create a new image of his career.
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