Kevin Durant Trade Could Happen Within Days

A potential Kevin Durant trade could be just around the corner, consummated within days. In his latest substack [subscription required], NBA writer Marc Stein indicates that the Phoenix Suns, with new coach Jordan Ott in hand, are now ready to move on to their other piece of summer business, trading the 15-time NBA All-Star per his request.

Stein indicates that the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat are the frontrunners for Durant’s services. Other rumored teams—according to Stein the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Clippers—appear to have taken a back seat at this juncture.

He also says that Phoenix has “escalated” their trade calls in recent days, leading some to speculate that a deal will happen as soon as next week. Stein indicates that the Milwaukee Bucks’ ongoing talks with Giannis Antetokounmpo had previously slowed the Durant process, as Phoenix and the rest of the league were waiting to see what would happen with the former MVP. The Bucks appear unwilling to trade Antetokounmpo at this juncture unless forced, leaving the field open for the next most attractive candidate, Durant.

Phoenix reportedly wants draft capital in exchange for Durant, though Stein indicates they do not plan to enter a rebuild. The return would need to be short-term.

Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 36.5 minutes per game over 62 appearances for the Suns last season. He has a single year remaining on his current contract, scheduled to give him $54.7 million.