Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has made it clear that star Kevin Durant is not available. In a statement before the 2024 draft, Ishbia shared that “Phoenix loves Kevin Durant and Kevin Durant loves Phoenix,” before adding that they are “competing for a championship” and that they have all the pieces necessary to achieve it.
These statements come after the operation of the Rockets, who transferred valuable draft assets to the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night with the intention of bidding very hard for Durant. The Rockets returned to the Nets their 2026 first-round pick, which they had obtained in the James Harden deal in 2021, in addition to giving up the rights to a swap Brooklyn’s first-round pick in 2025. In exchange, the Rockets got an unprotected 2027 first-round pick (via the Suns), a 2029 first-round pick (the most favorable between the Suns or Mavericks) and two swaps in 2025 and 2029.
This movement has clear strategic signs for Houston, who also have the third pick The intent is to use these new assets to land a star like Durant, who they are rumored to be interested in. Ishbia, in his firm statement on social media, reiterated that the Suns plan to compete next season with Durant on the roster. However, the Rockets are in a unique position to offer the Arizona team the picks they sent to Brooklyn to acquire the two-time Finals MVP.
More NBAHow to watch NBA streaming online 2023 with League Pass on two devices?
From Phoenix’s perspective, although they probably don’t want to part with Durant, it would be difficult to turn down the offer if the Rockets offer a succulent trade package. Durant’s brief time with the Suns has not gone as expected due to injuries and the team has not been able to advance beyond the second round of the playoffs. After trading for Bradley Beal last summer to form a powerful Big Three Offensively, the Suns struggled this season due to their lack of depth, which will persist next season due to the high luxury tax on their three stars. And it should be noted that Durant will turn 36 years old in September.
The Rockets could offer multiple assets for Durant, and would even be considering including emerging star Alperen Sengun in a hypothetical move, according to Brian Windhorst of ESPN. While getting rid of the Turkish interior would be surprising given his notable performance over the course, selecting UConn center Donovan Clingan could open the door to moving Sengun, as has been rumored.
And if it’s not Durant, the Rockets can use their picks to try to acquire another player. They are reportedly interested in other All-Stars like Jimmy Butler and Paul George. It’s clear that Houston intends to make a significant move this offseason in hopes of competing for a playoff spot next season. It only remains to be seen which team will be willing to close an agreement with them.
(Cover photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
More NBAList of top scorers in NBA history
2024-06-26 21:00:00
#Suns #owner #denies #Kevin #Durant #market
