The Phoenix Suns are facing uncertain times with Kevin Durant, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Since considering trading Durant at the deadline, conditions in Phoenix have deteriorated significantly. The team is set to spend over $400 million on payroll and luxury taxes this season, putting them at risk of missing the playoffs.
With Bradley Beal having a no-trade clause and Devin Booker’s “untouchable” status, Windhorst believes the Suns will be forced to choose between maintaining their current roster or trading Durant as part of a restructuring. The team was close to finalizing a trade with the Golden State Warriors before Durant vetoed the move.
Despite this setback, rumors persist that Durant will indeed be traded this summer. ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that Durant and the Suns are aware he is likely to be traded, with at least four to six contenders interested in acquiring him. With one season and $54.7 million remaining on his contract, the Suns’ decision will depend on how the rest of the season unfolds.
Currently, the team sits outside the Western Conference bubble, but injuries to key players could shift their fortunes. Kyrie Irving’s season-ending injury has weakened the Dallas Mavericks, potentially opening a path for the Suns into the play-in round. As the situation remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Durant’s future with the Suns is far from certain.
Source: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25166723-windhorst-conditions-suns-have-deteriorated-kevin-durant-trade-talks