The Minnesota Timberwolves are on the cusp of legitimate title contention. After back-to-back years of playoff progression, they still came up short. With Kevin Durant potentially available again, Minnesota faces its biggest offseason decision yet. Despite being 36, Durant remains one of the league’s most elite scorers. The challenge? “He’s not sold on Minnesota.” The opportunity? Phoenix might still consider a deal—if the Wolves make the right pitch.
Falling Short Again
Minnesota finished the 2024–25 regular season with a 49–33 record, securing the sixth seed in the West. Their defense was among the league’s best, and the continued emergence of Anthony Edwards as a superstar gave them their strongest foundation since the Kevin Garnett era.
The playoffs saw them eliminate both the Lakers and the Warriors, advancing to the Western Conference Finals. But against an in-form Oklahoma City Thunder, their offense faltered. Edwards shouldered the scoring load, but ultimately, he was outplayed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. The Timberwolves “bowed out in six games,” agonizingly close to the Finals.
Now, Minnesota is exploring major moves to finally break through. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst stated the Wolves have been the “most aggressive” team in pursuit of Durant. However, “not interested in joining Minnesota,” according to other reports, remains a concern. Still, it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker.
The Ideal Package for Phoenix
Proposed Trade:
Suns receive: Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, Rob Dillingham, Terrence Shannon Jr., 2025 No. 17 pick
Timberwolves receive: Kevin Durant
This would be a steep price for Minnesota, but the reward could be even greater. Pairing Edwards and Durant would form a deadly offensive combo and add essential playoff experience. For Phoenix, this deal brings a defensive anchor, young assets, and solid depth.
Durant’s Potential Impact
While Edwards is rising fast, he struggled to carry the offensive load alone in high-pressure situations. Durant would immediately lessen that burden. Last season, he still averaged 26.6 points per game on 52.7% shooting and 43.0% from three. His scoring versatility would create space for Edwards and others.
Yes, Durant only has a year left on his contract and “reportedly isn’t excited about a Minnesota move.” But this isn’t about the long term—it’s about going all-in now. The Western Conference is wide open, and Minnesota’s window to contend is real. If they believe a title is within reach, one season of Durant may be enough.
Phoenix’s Perspective
Since parting ways with Deandre Ayton, the Suns have lacked stability at center. Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, doesn’t replicate Ayton’s offensive game but makes up for it on defense. He still posted 12.0 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game last season.
Their bench has also been a weak point. DiVincenzo would help there—he’s a tough, flexible guard who averaged 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, shooting nearly 40% from deep. He has playoff experience from his time with the Warriors and Knicks.
The additions of Dillingham and Shannon Jr. add youth and upside. Dillingham brings scoring creativity, while Shannon flashed potential during Minnesota’s playoff run. Add in the No. 17 pick, and Phoenix gets both depth and future flexibility.
Edwards Factor & Final Thoughts
There’s also the intangible: Edwards admires Durant and has said so in past interviews. While KD may not be eager now, playing with a driven young star and under a respected coach like Chris Finch could shift his mindset.
This trade is risky, no doubt. Bringing in someone “who isn’t fully on board” could backfire. But bold moves win championships. The Nuggets did it in 2023. The Celtics did it in 2024. Maybe 2026 is Minnesota’s turn.
