Exploring Kevin Durant's Possible Trades Among NBA Teams
This analysis examines the potential scenarios for Kevin Durant's trade, considering what's at stake for the Phoenix Suns amidst varying metrics and age-related challenges.
For various reasons, Kevin Durant may not bring as much return in a trade as the Phoenix Suns desire. Consider the following points:
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When Durant has been traded in the past, he was generally seen as a top-five player in the NBA (when healthy), which is no longer his status. Current metrics show him as 29th in BPM, 32nd in EPM, and 48th in estimated RAPTOR, with a drop to 84th in Win Shares per 48 minutes.
- This shift poses questions about his ranking in the league today versus historically.
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Age plays a significant role in this discussion: Durant will turn 37 by opening night. His reduced ability to drive to the basket, having made only two shots per game in the restricted area, and a downturn in his free-throw rate contribute to concerns about his performance.
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Financially, he’s currently one of the highest-paid players, which complicates trade possibilities especially as the NBA faces a financially tight season ahead.
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On the other hand, his expiring contract means he has some leverage in choosing his trade destination, possibly limiting the bidding war. Durant isn’t quite like Giannis Antetokounmpo; a risky trade for him could either bolster or ruin a team’s championship ambitions.
Potential Trade Scenarios:
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- Suns receive: Jalen Green, Jabari Smith, Jock Landale, and the number 10 pick.
- Rockets receive: Kevin Durant.
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- Suns receive: Devin Vassell, Jeremy Sochan, Harrison Barnes, and the 14th pick.
- Spurs receive: Kevin Durant.
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- Suns receive: Julius Randle, Mike Conley, Goga Bitadze, Terrence Shannon Jr., and the number 25 pick.
- Timberwolves receive: Kevin Durant.
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- Suns receive: Andrew Wiggins, Robert Williams III, Nikola Jović, two future first-round picks.
- Heat receive: Kevin Durant.
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- Suns receive: Tobias Harris, Isaiah Stewart, Jaden Ivey, the 37th pick, and a 2026 first-round pick.
- Pistons receive: Kevin Durant.
Each of these trades carries risk and the potential for significant change in the teams involved as the league approaches a new season.
