Amid swirling trade rumors surrounding Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia addressed the star forward’s future with the team this week.
In an interview with ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Ishbia reflected on the team’s performance and discussed potential offseason moves, indicating that changes could be on the horizon, depending on the Suns’ final standings.
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The Suns, struggling to make a playoff position, are 11th in the Western Conference with a disappointing 30-36 record. Despite the team’s struggles, Durant has been a standout performer, averaging 26.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. This production makes him a valuable asset, whether for the Suns’ bid to return to competitiveness or as a high-value trade piece.
“We’re going to evaluate in the offseason,” Ishbia stated. “We’re going to find a way to win, and it’s probably a lot easier winning with Kevin Durant than without him. But at the same time, if we’re not good enough in this iteration of the Phoenix Suns, we’re going to find a way to be better next year.”
The Suns have failed to find consistent playoff success since acquiring Durant in a blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2022-23 season.
Last season, even with a core that included Bradley Beal and Devin Booker, Phoenix was unexpectedly swept in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. This season has only declined further, casting doubts over the team’s current strategy.
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Due to his sustained elite performance, Durant’s potential on the trade market remains high. Recent reports by ESPN’s Shams Charania and Ohm Youngmisuk noted that Durant was sought after by his former team, the Golden State Warriors, at this season’s trade deadline.
However, Durant expressed no interest in a return, signaling his commitment to his current team, at least for the duration of the season.
As the offseason approaches, speculation continues to grow. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst suggested that a trade involving Durant is likely, saying last month on Get Up, “Durant knows it, the Suns know it, the rest of the league knows it.” This potential move could provide the Suns with crucial assets to initiate a rebuild or retool their roster more effectively around their existing core.
As Phoenix navigates the remainder of the season, the focus remains on clinching a playoff spot and the broader strategy for retaining or capitalizing on Durant’s value to reshape the franchise’s future.
