Over the past two days, there have been significant developments in the Kevin Durant trade controversy. There is a lot more talk about possible transactions now that the NBA Draft is just over a week away. The Phoenix Suns are rumored to have turned down the San Antonio Spurs’ most recent offer, despite the Spurs being the favorite to get Durant in a trade.
According to Shadab Khan of Sports Illustrated, the Spurs made the Suns a counter offer for Durant. Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, the No. 14 pick, and second-round draft capital were all included in the trade package.
Although this is in line with a predicted trade proposal, it seems the Suns are not interested in making the deal and are instead requesting Jeremy Sochan or Stephon Castle.
The Suns’ initial demand for Vassell, Sochan, Barnes, the No. 14 pick, and two first-round picks prompted the Spurs to make a counteroffer. The Spurs had to turn this down, of course.
Both Castle and Sochan have established themselves as key members of the Spurs’ strategy, and San Antonio has made it apparent that they are hesitant to let them go. Castle was a very hard asset to rip away because San Antonio would be very careful in monitoring his progress, especially since he won the ROTY award.
In the grand scheme of things, this rejection might have significant ramifications. Even though Durant and San Antonio were interested in working together, it would be challenging to make a trade if the Suns don’t get enough young players and picks in exchange.
Concerns have always been raised about Durant’s asking price. Phoenix might still be asking for too much in exchange, even though the Suns are in a terrible situation and have a good reason to sell him.
In either case, if trade negotiations with the Spurs are stalled, other teams will have the chance to sign Durant. A number of teams have also surfaced as possible suitors.
In recent years, the Houston Rockets had been thought to be the most likely destination. The Suns might also consider such a package advantageous given the possibility that Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. will be included in the trade.
In the meantime, there are hints that a few underdog teams might also be hiding beneath trade rumors. The Toronto Raptors were suggested by Marc Stein as a team to consider making a move.
Similar to Kawhi Leonard’s 2018 contract, the Raptors are anticipated to see Durant as a “rental” with no plans to extend him. The Los Angeles Clippers have also been mentioned by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst as a possible destination, opening the door for a reunion with Durant’s old teammate James Harden.
The Minnesota Timberwolves have also been cited as a team to keep an eye on in these dealings. Jaden McDaniels will not be included in any trade negotiations involving Durant, though, since the Wolves have also made some limitations apparent.
Because of the circumstances, there are several barriers that will keep a real transaction from occurring very soon. The idea that Durant will be dealt before or on the night of the NBA Draft, however, appears to be getting more momentum given the urgency of the situation.
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