The Phoenix Suns struck out at the trade deadline, with Jimmy Butler going from the Heat to the Warriors. Bradley Beal's no-trade clause was a significant factor, as the 31-year-old wants to remain in Arizona.
Before Wednesday night's trade between Miami and Golden State, there was real traction on a deal involving Durant. The Warriors were in desperation mode, reaching out to teams to check in on the availability of stars. The idea of KD returning to the Bay Area went from a far-fetched dream to something that could happen, but there was one problem.
The Athletic's Anthony Slater reported that Steph Curry had a conversation with Durant that made him realize a reunion was "unlikely" (subscription required). Golden State then turned its attention back to Butler, which resulted in a multi-team deal.
The Suns are left trying to figure out how to compete in a stacked Western Conference, and the past few days have created an even larger issue. Things can quickly get ugly when a team makes it known they're listening to offers for a player, and said player doesn't get traded. Phoenix's main goal the past few days wasn't to trade KD, but the fact it could've happened says it all.
Phoenix Suns left in disarray with trade deadline chaos
The Suns are No. 10 in the West with a 25-25 record. They're three games back from the No. 6 Clippers. Chances are that Phoenix will have to make it past the Play-In Tournament to earn a playoff berth. If that happens, the Suns will likely be another first-round exit.
What would that mean for Durant? The 2025-26 season is the last on his current contract. The KD trade rumors could ramp up this summer, with the 36-year-old wanting to try to win another championship before eventually retiring. Why would he want to stay in Phoenix after the front office has failed to build a winning team around him and Devin Booker?
If you thought the past few days were chaotic, buckle up. The moves the Suns have made since acquiring Durant before the 2023 deadline haven't panned out. Pair that with the KD trade rumors, and it's the perfect recipe for a disaster.