A sensational trade scenario has emerged that could redefine the Western Conference landscape—Kevin Durant returning to the Golden State Warriors, with Draymond Green heading to the Phoenix Suns. The proposal was recently floated by Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey.
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Draymond Green, Buddy Hield, Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade), 2026 first-round pick, and 2028 first-round pick
The proposed deal includes Draymond Green, Buddy Hield, Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade), a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2028 first-round pick going to Phoenix in exchange for Durant.
With the Suns reportedly planning to work with Durant on a potential trade and having already parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer, a seismic move like this doesn’t feel far-fetched.
Durant has been vocal in the past about not wanting to return to Golden State, and Shams Charania confirmed that the Warriors explored a deadline deal for Durant earlier this season before the former MVP shot it down.
However, things change quickly in the NBA, and if the Warriors suffer another early playoff exit, the franchise may be forced to revisit all options.
For Golden State, this would be a bold and potentially polarizing move. Draymond Green has been the emotional engine of the Warriors’ dynasty, a defensive maestro whose chemistry with Stephen Curry was essential to their identity.
Swapping him out for Durant would mean abandoning that rugged defensive backbone in favor of elite shot-making and star power. But with Curry now 37 and Jimmy Butler now 35, time is running out.
Adding Durant—who averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists on 52.7% shooting this season—would give the Warriors another legitimate shot at a title.
The inclusion of Buddy Hield and Kuminga helps the deal work financially and strategically. Hield, a proven shooter, could be flipped or plugged in for spacing, while Kuminga is a 22-year-old with tantalizing upside.
He has struggled for consistent minutes in Golden State but could thrive with a larger role in Phoenix, where athleticism and energy are in short supply. His addition, combined with two first-round picks, gives the Suns a solid mix of youth and assets to rebuild.
From Phoenix’s perspective, the trade could finally put an end to the Durant-Booker-Beal experiment, which has failed to yield postseason success.
They not only get future draft flexibility but also bring in Draymond Green, a four-time champion who could instill a championship culture in a franchise that has often lacked toughness and identity. While Green doesn’t replace Durant’s scoring, his defensive acumen and leadership could help stabilize the locker room.
If Durant ever reconsiders his stance, this deal could give both teams a necessary reset. For Golden State, it’s about one last run at the top with Curry if this season doesn’t work out. For Phoenix, it’s about turning the page. Whether it actually happens remains to be seen, but the framework is already built—and the intrigue is undeniable.
