Kevin Durant’s future continues to take the spotlight. Among the multiple teams linked to the 2-time NBA champion, the Toronto Raptors are now linked to the veteran forward.
Earlier, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the San Antonio Spurs were viewed as bonafide contenders to land the superstar despite the expiring contract and his age. While there are no concrete developments, Durant continues to be one of the big names expected to find a new home before the start of next season.
NBA Insider Sheds Light on What Raptors’ Move for Kevin Durant Would Look Like
Per NBA insider Jake Fischer of “The Stein Line,” sources said the Raptors would be willing to part ways with franchise superstars RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.
“Will Toronto actually go beyond all the noise about their willingness to gamble on Durant without a long-term contract commitment to make a determined push for KD?” Fischer wrote.
“Sources say that the Raptors would be willing to part with either RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley for a significant roster upgrade. Several league figures with knowledge of the Raptors’ thinking have likewise asserted that they could show a willingness to move center Jakob Poeltl as well … provided that the trade in question brought back Durant.”
Jake Fischer:
Sources say that the Raptors would be willing to part with either RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley for a significant roster upgrade.
The Raps’ #9 pick is increasingly viewed as perhaps the most likely top-10 pick in the draft to be traded.https://t.co/9BQ3COTy7w pic.twitter.com/QQFXc8cRqN
— Omer Osman (@OmerOsman200) June 16, 2025
Fischer also noted that the team’s No. 9 pick is perhaps considered a top-10 pick to be traded.
“My sense is that Toronto would prefer to simply trade down rather than trade out of the first round completely. Perhaps there is some swap potential in a deal with Phoenix and the Suns’ No. 29 overall selection,” Fischer wrote.
The Raptors have endured struggles in the past few seasons. They last made the playoffs in 2022, when they were eliminated in the first round by the Philadelphia 76ers. They have had early summers since and have been rebuilding ever since they sent Fred VanVleet to the Houston Rockets.
If Toronto were to make a swing for Durant, it would put them in “win now” mode.
However, it’s worth noting that the team will also need quality in the guard and center departments. Jamal Shead will be playing his second season, while any trade talk involving a superstar will almost certainly include Jakob Poeltl. Toronto’s lack of experience will hurt if they do deal their starting big.
There is also the point of whether Toronto is on Durant’s mind. The forward will enter the final year of his deal with the Phoenix Suns and will make $54.7 million next season. He will be eligible for a two-year, $122 million extension. Per reports, the All-Star has shown interest in the Spurs, Rockets, and the Miami Heat.
