During a segment on SportsCenter, ESPN analyst Shams Charania revealed that Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant is not inclined to join the Minnesota Timberwolves, the team reportedly pursuing him most aggressively. “I’m told Durant has no desire to be in Minnesota with the Timberwolves,” Charania stated. “So how does that shape how the Minnesota Timberwolves and other teams that could have interest, that are outside of his preferred list, decide how to move forward with these Durant discussions?”
In a follow-up discussion on NBA Today featuring Charania, Brian Windhorst, and Marc J. Spears, Charania noted that the Suns are intrigued by players such as Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert. Windhorst mentioned that the Timberwolves may lower their trade offer for Durant if there is uncertainty regarding his willingness to sign an extension. Spears added that while Durant favored the New York Knicks, the team is not interested, prompting Durant to look at the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs as alternatives.
The Suns are not required to seek Durant’s approval for a trade to Minnesota; however, a strong relationship between Phoenix’s management and the seasoned All-Star may influence his next destination. Barry Jackson from the Miami Herald suggested that Durant and his representatives might need to actively deter teams like the Timberwolves to secure a move to a more favored location.
Additionally, Windhorst previously highlighted the Toronto Raptors and the Los Angeles Clippers as potential players in the Durant trade scene. Regarding the Spurs, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype mentioned Jeremy Sochan, along with Harrison Barnes and Keldon Johnson, as trade assets that could potentially be on the market. Sochan, who averaged 11.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists this season, is eligible for a rookie-scale extension this summer, making him an attractive option that could benefit San Antonio’s offer for Durant.