Kevin Durant has been a prominent name in trade rumors this offseason, with the Minnesota Timberwolves emerging as one of the potential suitors. However, NBA insider Shams Charania recently revealed that Durant has no interest in joining the Timberwolves.
Durant, who plays for the Phoenix Suns, has been linked with multiple teams during the offseason. While Minnesota was considered among the top contenders to land the veteran star, Shams Charania reported otherwise.
> “I’m told the Phoenix Suns remain in active conversations around the league on a Kevin Durant deal. But they’re focus over the last several days has been on three teams – the Miami Heat, the Houston Rockets, and the Minnesota Timberwolves.”
Charania further clarified Durant’s personal preferences:
“We know his preferred destinations, though, are the Rockets, Spurs, and the Heat. So, the Suns have been working with Durant’s partner, Rich Kleiman, just figuring out where exactly he could end up. It could be one of his preferred destinations, it could be a wild card team.”
The ESPN insider emphasized that Durant’s expiring contract is a major factor in trade discussions. He then delivered a decisive update:
“I’m told Kevin Durant has no desire to be in Minnesota with the Timberwolves.”
This revelation significantly affects how teams not on Durant’s preferred list, like the Timberwolves, might approach trade talks with the Suns.
Minnesota’s pursuit of Durant stemmed from their ambition to pair another superstar with their young franchise cornerstone, Anthony Edwards. The idea of adding a seasoned “alpha” like Durant was reportedly appealing to the Timberwolves’ front office.
In addition to Minnesota, Durant has also been linked with other youthful squads like the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs. Interest between Durant and the Spurs appeared mutual, but trade negotiations reportedly stalled after the Suns turned down a counteroffer from San Antonio.
Meanwhile, Houston has shown serious intent by reportedly preparing a package featuring young stars Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. Still, talks have not resulted in any agreement.
Durant’s continued appeal is understandable. Even in the later stages of his career, the 15-time All-Star averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists on 52.7% shooting last season. His playoff experience and championship pedigree remain highly valuable for teams in contention.
Though a deal hasn’t materialized yet, many believe the Suns could finalize a trade before the upcoming NBA Draft, especially with Durant’s future still a focal point of offseason speculation.
