The Phoenix Suns engaged in trade talks with the Timberwolves for Kevin Durant before the deadline, but the situation has since changed. ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported on Monday that Durant has no interest in playing for Minnesota.
Sam Amick and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reported that the Suns have been underwhelmed by trade discussions (subscription required) with the Spurs and Rockets, two teams on Durant's wishlist. They added that Phoenix communicated to Durant's camp that the team is prioritizing a deal that yields the best return, meaning KD could be traded to a team he doesn't want to play for, such as the Timberwolves.
Minnesota could put together the best offer, including players like Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and/or Rudy Gobert in a package. The Suns don't want to rebuild, but want to try to construct a win-now team around Devin Booker. The players above fit that description.
Although Durant reportedly doesn't want to be in Minnesota, a trade could still happen. Perhaps he'll speak to Anthony Edwards and change his mind. Or maybe the Timberwolves will take the risk and trade for KD without a commitment from him that he'll want to stay in Minnesota beyond the 2025-26 season. If that happened, it could leave Durant in a position he's been in before -- looking for a way out.
Timberwolves want Kevin Durant, but he doesn't want them
The only thing Suns fans should care about regarding a KD trade is getting the best possible return, whether it comes from the Timberwolves or the Spurs. Durant being unhappy about playing in Minnesota won't be Phoenix's problem.
One would assume that the next team KD plays for will be his last, as he'll turn 37 before next season starts. However, with one season left on his current contract, he could be traded to one team this summer before signing with another next offseason. Again, that isn't something the Suns are thinking about, nor is it something they are worried about.
Phoenix and Minnesota could re-engage in trade talks in the coming days, especially if the Suns continue to receive offers from other teams that don't move the needle. Durant could change his mind, deciding that he wants to be in Minnesota. It's not like the Timberwolves are the lowly team they once were, but it seems like he's more concerned with the money, as Texas and Florida don't have a state income tax.
Durant said earlier this year on Draymond Green's podcast that he wants to end his career on his terms. Will that happen with the trade that's looming on the horizon, or will he be disappointed with his next team?