The Phoenix Suns’ hopes of orchestrating a blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant appear to be hitting a snag. After a lackluster season for Phoenix, the 15-time All-Star has made his feelings clear and wants out of the desert. While both sides seem in agreement that the relationship is over, insiders reveal that it might be a tall task to simply trade Durant outright.
Sources Report Suns’ Kevin Durant Trade Demands May Have To Be Altered
According to the report from Duane Rankin in “The Arizona Republic,” “The Suns have ‘no leverage’ in part because of Durant’s age and because he wants to start fresh somewhere else, league sources say. The idea of Durant returning to a team that entertained deals for him before the 2025 trade deadline isn’t a pleasant one.”
Sources: Phoenix Suns have ‘no leverage,’ may have to lower price to trade Kevin Durant (w/video) #Suns https://t.co/Ex4pmRz6CI via @azcentral
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) June 17, 2025
This sentiment underscores the difficult position Phoenix finds itself in.
“A team can wait and see if Phoenix asks for less in a trade,” Rankin says. ” The Suns would also like to get this done before the June 25-26 NBA Draft because draft picks are expected to be part of any deal.”
A significant factor contributing to this lack of leverage is Durant’s age. At the start of the upcoming 2025-2026 NBA season, Kevin Durant will turn 37, a considerable age for a player with his extensive mileage and injury history. While still a highly productive player, his long-term value to a contending team is undoubtedly a concern for potential suitors.
Despite the Suns’ disappointing season, Durant’s individual performance remained elite. This season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 62 contests, showcasing his continued ability to score efficiently and contribute across the board.
However, his impressive statistics haven’t translated into significant team success, and it appears both sides are ready for a change.
Adding to the Suns’ predicament are Durant’s reported preferred destinations. Per a report from Shams Charania, Durant has his sights set on either the San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves, or Miami Heat.
While these teams may be eager to acquire a player of Durant’s caliber, the Suns’ desire to maximize their return might clash with these limited options.
At this point, the Suns’ priority should shift from finding Durant’s preferred landing spot to securing the best possible package of assets. If they truly have no leverage as reported, then clinging to a high asking price will only prolong the inevitable and potentially diminish the return.
Phoenix may be forced to send Durant anywhere if it means getting valuable draft picks, young talent, or expiring contracts in return to jumpstart their much-needed rebuild. The focus must be on what Phoenix gets in return, not where Durant prefers to go.
