The Minnesota Timberwolves’ pursuit of Kevin Durant may have hit a permanent wall, as new reports suggest that not only did their three-team trade proposal fall apart, but Durant himself wants no part of it.
According to NBA insider Matt Moore, Minnesota attempted to construct a complex three-team trade involving the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets in hopes of landing the 15-time All-Star.
“League sources have said the Nets were brought in as a potential third-team in a deal construct, which would have helped move money and contracts to help both teams reshape their rosters. (No idea what they were getting or sending, but I would speculatively bet Nic Claxton to Phoenix was part of those talks.)”
“But then KD did what it is his right, and sent out word that he doesn’t want to play there. Maybe the Wolves pull the trigger anyway with a “you’ll love us when you get here” concept. After all, just swapping out components to clear cap space next year would be valuable for the Wolves long-term.”
“But let’s say Minnesota’s out.”
The Nets were reportedly brought in to help absorb contracts and facilitate roster reshuffling for all involved. There was even speculation that Phoenix would have received rising big man Nic Claxton from Brooklyn in the proposed framework.
However, the plan unraveled quickly when Durant exercised his leverage and made it known he had no intention of playing in Minnesota.
That revelation effectively froze Minnesota’s involvement. Per Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Timberwolves have made it clear they won’t proceed with any serious trade discussions unless they receive some sort of assurance from Durant that he’s willing to join the franchise.
“Minnesota is not gonna play ball until they get signal Kevin wants to play there.”
This comes on the heels of a leaked trade proposal from the Wolves’ camp, which reportedly included Rudy Gobert, young prospects Donte DiVincenzo, Rob Dillingham, and Terrence Shannon Jr., as well as the No. 17 overall pick in this year’s draft.
While that deal might hold value for the Suns, especially as they look to retool their roster around Devin Booker, it becomes meaningless if Durant refuses to report.
Durant’s stance is no surprise. He’s already outlined three preferred destinations where he’s willing to sign long-term: the Houston Rockets, the Miami Heat, and the San Antonio Spurs. While all three are still active in trade discussions, only two are believed to remain strong contenders.
The Spurs, once considered frontrunners, have reportedly slipped in the race after Phoenix rejected their initial offer. Despite mutual interest between Durant and San Antonio, the Spurs’ unwillingness to part with key assets, possibly including rising star Keldon Johnson or Devin Vassell, has stalled momentum.
That leaves Houston and Miami. Both teams have appealing combinations of youth, cap space, and championship aspirations.
The Rockets, in particular, are rumored to be taking a “patient” approach, knowing full well that the Suns have little leverage. Meanwhile, the Heat are reportedly preparing a revised offer after Durant’s camp gave them positive signals.
As for the Timberwolves, the collapse of the three-team deal is a clear indicator that their pursuit may be over before it truly began.
Without Durant’s approval, there’s no pathway forward. And for a team already investing heavily in Anthony Edwards’ development, taking a swing at a veteran superstar without his blessing would’ve been a major risk.
For now, it seems Minnesota is bowing out of the KD sweepstakes, leaving the Rockets and Heat to battle it out for one of the game’s most prolific scorers.
