Overview
- Kevin Durant is widely expected to leave the Phoenix Suns following their failure to make the playoffs or play-in tournament this season.
- The Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves are reported as the leading contenders in trade discussions for Durant, with Houston also in the mix.
- Miami has signaled reluctance to part with all its first-round draft picks in a potential deal, complicating negotiations with Phoenix.
- The Suns are pivoting away from their 'Big 3' strategy and view Durant as their most valuable trade asset to reshape the roster around defense-oriented players.
- Durant, who averaged 26.6 points per game this season, remains a highly sought-after player despite being on an expiring $54.7 million contract at age 36.