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[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns are aiming to trade Kevin Durant ahead of the upcoming NBA Draft and have reportedly lowered their expectations for what they’ll get in return.
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Suns are seeking “at least one meaningful selection” in the June 25 draft as part of any deal for Durant. That phrasing suggests Phoenix may no longer expect a haul of multiple first-round picks for the 15-time All-Star.
The Suns initially paid a steep price to land Durant from the Brooklyn Nets at the 2022-23 trade deadline, parting with Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, four unprotected first-round picks, and a first-round pick swap.
Marc Stein noted that Phoenix “knows they won’t be able to come anywhere close” to recovering what they gave up two years ago. While Durant remains a high-level performer — averaging 26.6 points per game this season — he turns 37 in September, carries a hefty $54.7 million salary for next year, and has a well-documented injury history. These factors, combined with his expiring contract, make potential trade partners wary of paying a premium.
Despite that, interest in Durant remains strong. Reports indicate there are three leading contenders in the mix for the two-time NBA Finals MVP, with at least one other team potentially preparing a late offer.
With the draft just over a week away, most expect a Durant trade to materialize soon — making it unlikely he’ll still be on the Suns’ roster by the time Phoenix is on the clock.