Image Source: Getty Images
[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns are expected to move on from Kevin Durant this offseason, and a clearer picture of their trade demands is beginning to take shape.
Duane Rankin of the *Arizona Republic* reported Monday that the Suns are seeking three first-round picks and a young player in a potential multi-team deal. The primary goal for Phoenix is to get under the second apron of the luxury tax.
However, Rankin also noted that the Suns may be willing to accept a lesser return to make a deal happen. Ideally, they’d take back around $35 million in salary for Durant, who is set to make $54.7 million next season, effectively saving the team $20 million.
Just two years ago, Phoenix traded Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, Jae Crowder, four unprotected first-round picks, and a 2028 pick swap to Brooklyn to acquire Durant and TJ Warren. Given Durant’s age—he’ll turn 37 after this season—and the fact that he only has one guaranteed year left on his contract, the Suns won’t fetch nearly as much in return.
However, with Durant still averaging nearly 27 points per game on elite efficiency (53/40/83 shooting splits) and bringing his Bird rights to any acquiring team, Phoenix can still expect a solid haul.
The Suns’ willingness to part ways with Durant is understandable. Despite boasting the NBA’s highest payroll at roughly $220 million, the team sits at just 30-34 and has no control over its own first-round draft picks until 2032. With their championship window rapidly closing, Phoenix is now focused on cutting costs and restocking its depleted draft assets.
At least six teams have already been linked to Durant, and any potential deal may require a complex multi-team framework due to the Suns’ financial restrictions under the second apron. Still, the trade blueprint is now taking shape, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster move this offseason.