The Minnesota Timberwolves have become a leading candidate in the ongoing discussions around a potential Kevin Durant trade, positioning themselves as a strong possible destination for the future Hall of Famer. Interest in Durant from the Timberwolves continues to grow as NBA insiders explore various trade scenarios ahead of the upcoming season.
Timberwolves Among Primary Teams Discussed in Kevin Durant Trade Rumors
During the June 12 episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, analysts Bill Simmons and Zach Lowe identified the Timberwolves and the San Antonio Spurs as the two teams generating the most attention in league circles regarding a Kevin Durant trade this summer. While the Spurs appeared to hold an advantage due to their attractive trade assets, including both players and draft picks, new reports suggest Minnesota remains a prominent contender as well.
Ian Begley from SNYtv shared insights on June 14, highlighting the Suns’ interest in adding a starting-caliber center this offseason, which creates opportunities connected to trading Durant. Begley noted,
“One thing worth noting on potential Kevin Durant trades: there are important Suns voices who want to add a starting-caliber [center] this offseason,”
and added,
“There are several pathways to do this, but KD trade obviously gives PHX the clearest path to one. As many others have said, MIN is among teams with current interest in Durant. Nothing has changed for me with the Knicks and Durant, despite the reported interest earlier this week. Still see it at as a long shot that Durant ends up in NY.”
—Ian Begley, Reporter
Significance of Rudy Gobert in the Potential Trade Mix
Zach Lowe emphasized the combination of Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker and Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert during his discussion with Simmons. Gobert, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Star, has been instrumental to Minnesota’s recent deep playoff runs, helping the team reach the Western Conference Finals twice. At age 32, Gobert averaged 12 points, 10.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game last season.
In comparison, Durant posted averages of 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game during his 2024-25 season with Phoenix at age 36. This blend of a dominant scoring forward and a defensive anchor in Gobert could provide a significant boost to the Timberwolves’ roster composition and championship aspirations.
Potential Impact of Kevin Durant Joining Minnesota
A trade bringing Durant to the Timberwolves would represent a major shift in the NBA landscape, potentially elevating Minnesota as a serious title contender. The acquisition of Durant, combined with Gobert’s defensive presence and Booker’s offensive skills from the Suns, could force other franchises to reconsider their strategies for the upcoming season. While the Spurs remain a strong competitor due to their assets, continued interest from the Timberwolves signals that a trade centered there remains a plausible outcome.
As trade talks progress, the Timberwolves’ pursuit of Durant reflects their commitment to assembling a roster capable of deep postseason success. How this situation unfolds will be closely watched around the league, as trading for a player of Durant’s caliber could reshape the NBA’s competitive balance in significant ways.