With the NBA trade deadline rapidly approaching, the Phoenix Suns have reportedly begun fielding trade calls for Kevin Durant, according to Jake Fischer. However, while teams have inquired about the availability of the 14-time All-Star, the Suns have made it clear that they are not actively looking to move him.
Among the teams that reached out, the Golden State Warriors were one of the most intriguing suitors. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Warriors contacted the Suns last week to explore a potential blockbuster trade to bring Durant back to the Bay Area. However, Phoenix quickly shut down the possibility of a deal.
The Suns’ stance on Durant remains firm, as they reportedly told the Warriors that neither Durant nor Devin Booker is available. Despite Phoenix struggling with a 25-23 record, they still view Durant as an essential piece of their championship aspirations.
Although the Suns have stated they are not moving Durant, the fact that teams are calling suggests some uncertainty about Phoenix’s long-term plans. There are several reasons why opposing teams believe Durant could become available:
Despite having a Big Three of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, Phoenix has underperformed this season. They are currently eighth in the Western Conference, failing to establish themselves as a dominant contender.
Durant, at 36 years old, is still playing at a high level, averaging 26.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. However, with the Suns failing to gel as expected, rival teams may believe Phoenix could pivot toward a younger, more sustainable future.
The Suns are heavily restricted by the new CBA, making it difficult to improve their roster outside of trading one of their stars. Moving Durant could give them the flexibility to acquire multiple assets and reshape the team.
While the Warriors expressed interest, a reunion with Durant seems unlikely for multiple reasons. The Warriors do not have enough valuable trade assets to entice the Suns unless they are willing to part ways with Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and multiple first-round picks.
Golden State is currently 24-24, meaning even with Durant, they would not be guaranteed to become instant contenders. Durant has shown no signs of wanting out of Phoenix, making it unlikely that he would push for a return to the Warriors.
With four days left before the trade deadline, the Suns will likely continue to receive inquiries about Durant. However, unless Phoenix dramatically shifts its stance, Durant will remain with the team as they attempt to make a deep playoff run.
The Suns have invested heavily in their current core, and unless they completely collapse before the postseason, trading Durant seems highly improbable. But with teams still interested, the situation remains worth monitoring as the deadline looms.
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