ESPN insider Brian Windhorst expressed a near certainty that Kevin Durant will be traded by the Phoenix Suns this summer. On NBA Today, Windhorst stated he is “like 98 percent sure” that Durant will suit up for a different team next season, reflecting widespread speculation surrounding Kevin Durant trade rumors with Phoenix Suns.
This perspective aligns with Windhorst’s comments shortly after the trade deadline, indicating Durant’s commitment to the Suns is temporary. He noted that “everybody‘s intentions are crystal clear” as Durant gives his best effort this season while anticipating a change of scenery.
Durant’s Future Remains a Key Topic
Despite widespread belief in Durant’s trade, NBA insider Jake Fischer recently mentioned that Durant’s return to Phoenix
“has not been fully ruled out”
yet. Nevertheless, with the Suns actively exploring options during the trade deadline, the likelihood of him on their roster this fall seems slim.
Durant’s elite skills no longer guarantee team success, as the Suns ended the season three games behind the 10th-place Dallas Mavericks, falling short of even a Play-In Tournament spot. This underperformance has intensified discussions about potential roster changes.
Management Challenges and Potential Moves
Newly promoted Suns general manager Brian Gregory faces significant constraints when it comes to improving the team’s roster. Trading star players like Durant or Devin Booker is considered the most practical way to acquire assets that could either facilitate a team rebuild or bolster the supporting cast immediately.
While Booker likely holds greater trade value, moving him could alienate an already discouraged fanbase. Durant, meanwhile, is on a contract for just one more season and could opt to leave Phoenix after 2025-26, making a midterm trade a chance for the Suns to recover value from his move from the Brooklyn Nets.
Coaching Changes and Front Office Decisions
The Suns are concurrently narrowing their search for a new head coach, with reports identifying Heat assistant Chris Quinn and Cavaliers assistant Johnnie Bryant among five finalists. These decisions tie into the broader organizational shifts expected if Durant is traded, as leadership looks to reset and reposition the franchise.
Implications for the Suns and Upcoming Season
Kevin Durant’s potential trade represents a pivotal moment for Phoenix as they aim to reshape their future. The move could bring fresh opportunities but also challenges, especially in retaining fan support and establishing a new competitive identity. How the Suns manage this transition, both in leadership and roster construction, will significantly impact their trajectory in the coming seasons.
“has not been fully ruled out”
—Jake Fischer, NBA Insider
“everybody‘s intentions are crystal clear”
—Brian Windhorst, ESPN Insider