Kevin Durant is nearing the end of his unsuccessful tenure with the Phoenix Suns. After failing to reach the NBA playoffs last year, the veteran sees his name on the trade market. According to the latest rumors by Suns insider John Gambadoro, Durant could get traded within 21 days when the NBA draft begins on June 25.
What did John Gambadoro had to say on Kevin Durant's trade?
With only one late first-round pick for the Phoenix Suns, the team could opt an immediate return with another pick through Kevin Durant's trade, prompting the 36-year-old to move within matter of days. As per the Athletic, the Suns are trying to regain control of their picks, starting with No. 10 selection on June 25 and have already started talks with Houston Rockets.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have a control on Phoenix Suns' picks and have already received calls from their Western Conference team. Not just this, the Suns have already lowered the asking price for Kevin Durant in order to move him quickly. The Houston Rockets is the likely spot where Durant might end up because of the pick situation.
There are other teams who have been linked with the two-time NBA champion. According to John Gambadoro, the San Antonio Spurs could be the ideal spot for Kevin Durant. Not just this, the Atlanta Hawks have also shown their interest in signing Durant.
But, the Houston Rockets have a better chance of making a deeper playoff run that the other two teams. However, the Atlanta Hawks have a solid core at their disposal and the Eastern Conference isn't as stacked, which makes it ideal for Durant to join hands with Trae Young and co.
One reason which could prevent Kevin Durant's trade to Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets have a young team that is coming off a first round exit. They have rebuilt their team and are on the verge of being a playoff contender. With their early exit from the playoffs doesn't seem promising, but securing second spot in the Western Conference was a high of their season.
The only jigsaw which was missing from the puzzle was a shot-creator. Kevin Durant is one which can fill that void but having an interest in the player, they might still not pursue a deal. According to the Athletic, the Houston are aware of Durant's injury history.
The 36-year-old has been on the receiving end ever since returning from an Achilles tear surgery in 2020. Barring the 2023-24 season, where Kevin Durant played 75 games, he hasn't been able to cross the 60-game barrier in any of the other seasons in the past five years.
If the Rockets are eyeing to sign Kevin Durant, then they would expect his availability. At 36-year-old, Durant isn't getting any younger and if the team remains patient, then they can land a younger star for a reduced price tag.