The Golden State Warriors are grappling with an identity crisis during the 2024-25 season, sitting at a frustrating 19-19 despite Stephen Curry’s brilliance (22.6 PPG, 6.1 APG). The team has struggled to recapture its former dominance, with inconsistent play from its supporting cast and questions about whether the dynasty is nearing its end. Not to mention, there is massive uncertainty about their roster and which players will remain with the team long-term.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns, mired in sub-.500 basketball (18-19), are facing turmoil of their own. Bradley Beal has been the subject of trade rumors all season and was recently benched, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding a roster that was once considered a championship contender.
As the Suns explore potential moves for stars like Jimmy Butler or a new center, Kevin Durant’s tenure in Phoenix has also been scrutinized. At 36 years old, Durant still boasts elite production (27.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.0 APG) but may need a change of scenery to salvage his career and compete for another title.
A blockbuster trade idea sending Durant back to Golden State could rejuvenate both franchises—the Warriors would keep their dynasty alive, while the Suns gain valuable assets and flexibility for a much-needed reset. Here’s how this trade could reshape the NBA landscape.
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
Golden State Warriors Prepare For One More Championship Run
The Warriors’ core is aging, but Stephen Curry (36) remains a transcendent talent, averaging 22.6 points and 6.1 assists, and providing the leadership that made this team a dynasty. With Draymond Green (34) continuing to anchor the defense and Steve Kerr leading the charge from the sidelines, Golden State still has the tools for a deep playoff run.
However, their supporting cast has not risen to the occasion, with Andrew Wiggins struggling with inconsistency and Jonathan Kuminga failing to take the leap many expected (and might not be worthy of a max contract). For a franchise that measures success in banners, standing pat isn’t an option.
Bringing Kevin Durant back to the Bay Area could be the ultimate move to recapture championship glory. Durant is a proven winner in Golden State’s system, where his effortless scoring and defensive versatility elevated the Warriors to near-invincible status.
Pairing him with Curry and Green again would make Golden State title favorites and provide an inspiring full-circle moment for Durant. With the Suns’ own struggles and potential willingness to move KD for the right package, the timing feels serendipitous.
The risk is clear. Trading for Durant means sacrificing depth and future flexibility, including key pieces like Wiggins, Kuminga, and Kevon Looney. Yet for a franchise whose championship window is shrinking by the day, it’s a gamble worth taking. Curry isn’t getting younger, and the opportunity to retool around a transcendent duo of Curry and Durant might be the Warriors’ last, best shot at another ring.
Phoenix Suns Stop Wasting Time And Re-Tool Around Devin Booker
The Suns have tried to assemble a superteam around Devin Booker, but the results have been disastrous. After trading for Bradley Beal and pairing him with Kevin Durant, Phoenix finds itself below .500 and looking more like a playoff fringe team than a contender.
Beal, whose massive contract ($53,666,270 and $57,128,610 over next two seasons) makes him nearly untradeable (even in a potential deal for Jimmy Butler), has already been benched amid trade rumors, signaling the Suns are running out of patience. Meanwhile, Durant has performed admirably with 26.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, but at 36 years old, his timeline no longer aligns with Booker’s prime years.
By moving Durant to Golden State, the Suns could take the first step in building a younger, more balanced roster around Booker. Acquiring Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, and Kevon Looney would immediately add athleticism, defense, and depth.
Wiggins can shoulder some scoring load while providing elite wing defense, Kuminga offers tantalizing upside, and Looney is a proven rebounder and glue guy. The two first-round picks in the deal give Phoenix the flexibility to add more young talent or package them for another star.
This isn’t about giving up on competing but pivoting to a strategy that better aligns with Booker’s window. The Suns have also been linked to trades for Jimmy Butler and a potential upgrade at center, which could further solidify their future. Durant’s departure would sting in the short term, but Phoenix’s long-term prospects would improve significantly, especially if they use this trade as a catalyst for broader roster changes.
A Blockbuster Trade That Keeps Warriors Dynasty Alive
This proposed trade could go down as one of the most defining moments in NBA history, bringing Kevin Durant back to the team where he won two Finals MVPs. For Golden State, Durant’s return would not only be a nostalgic reunion but also a masterstroke in extending the dynasty. Durant’s elite scoring ability, even at 36, perfectly complements Curry’s playmaking, and the chemistry they built during their first stint together would allow the Warriors to hit the ground running.
For the Suns, this trade represents a fresh start. Trading Durant would allow Phoenix to reimagine their roster without being weighed down by mismatched timelines and redundant superstars. Acquiring Wiggins, Kuminga, and Looney would provide balance and flexibility, while the two first-round picks could fuel future moves. If Phoenix executes this trade and follows it up with smart roster decisions, they could find themselves back in the championship conversation within a couple of seasons.
Ultimately, this deal is a win-win for both teams. The Warriors get one last chance to compete for titles with their core, ensuring that Curry’s legendary career ends on a high note. Meanwhile, the Suns free themselves from the burden of forcing a square peg into a round hole, giving them the tools to build a roster that makes sense around Booker. It’s a bold move on both sides, but bold moves are what define NBA greatness.
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