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[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns are reportedly ramping up efforts to trade Kevin Durant this offseason, signaling a potential shift in their approach to roster building.
According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Suns have held multiple conversations with the Houston Rockets about a possible Durant deal since the end of the regular season. Iko notes that Phoenix has been “aggressive” in shopping the two-time NBA Finals MVP and has “gradually lowered their asking price” in recent talks.
That’s a notable development, considering the Suns were previously seeking a hefty return—reportedly three first-round picks and a young player—for the 15-time All-Star. While Durant remains a high-level performer, averaging 26.6 points per game this season, he turns 37 in September and carries a concerning injury history, making some teams hesitant to give up significant long-term assets.
Houston has also been linked to Devin Booker, though Iko reports the Rockets are wary of breaking up their young core for either Suns star. The Rockets are coming off a promising 52-30 season under Ime Udoka, reaching the playoffs and pushing the Golden State Warriors to seven games in the first round.
With a deep well of young talent and future draft picks, Houston is in position to pursue a star—if the fit and price are right. Rising players like Alperen Sengun (an All-Star this year) and defensive standout Amen Thompson have made the team reluctant to compromise its future.
Durant is reportedly open to a move to Houston but is also eyeing at least one other contending destination. The question for the Suns now is how far they’re willing to drop their trade demands in order to facilitate a deal and move into a new phase of their franchise’s future.