Kevin Durant Trade Rumors: Phoenix Suns Exploring Options Despite His Desire to Stay
As the Feb. 6 trade deadline nears, the Phoenix Suns remain active in trade discussions, with a surprising development involving Kevin Durant.
Suns Exploring Durant Trades, Despite His Desire to Stay
While Durant never requested a trade, multiple reports indicate that teams are making aggressive offers for the former MVP, leading to frustration and possible tension between Durant and the Suns’ front office.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania:
“Kevin Durant has not requested a trade, and it’s my understanding that most of all of these conversations this week have been somewhat blindsiding, because going into this season, I don’t think a trade was something he was thinking about. He has wanted to stay in Phoenix.”
One of the most notable rumors involved a potential blockbuster three-team trade that would have:
- Sent Durant back to the Golden State Warriors
- Brought Jimmy Butler to the Phoenix Suns
However, Durant personally rejected the idea of reuniting with the Warriors, a move that Golden State had aggressively pursued over the last week.
Suns’ Struggles & Trade Deadline Decisions
The Suns have endured a tumultuous season, sitting at a disappointing 25-25 record and currently holding the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference. Initially, they explored moving Bradley Beal, but their focus has now shifted to listening to Durant trade offers.
Despite the trade rumors, Durant continues to produce at an elite level, averaging:
- 26.9 PPG
- 6.1 RPG
- 63.2% true shooting percentage
- 39 games played
What’s Next for Durant & Phoenix?
While the Suns remain in win-now mode, their willingness to entertain offers for Durant suggests uncertainty about their current roster’s championship viability.
If the Suns fail to improve their chemistry and roster construction, could this summer be when Durant finally considers a move elsewhere?
