Despite the passing of the trade deadline, speculation regarding Kevin Durant’s possible exit continues to be a hot topic, likely remaining so for the foreseeable future.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst is at the forefront of this dialogue.
“He’s probably going to get traded this summer,” Windhorst expressed on Wednesday. “He knows it. The Suns recognize it. The entire league is aware. They’ll enjoy having him while they can. It’s not really a point of contention. Right now, they’re below .500. With a $230 million payroll and an additional $100 million in taxes, it’s a considerable issue…”
“I expect that Durant and the Suns will work together to find him a new team this summer.”
Reports suggest that before the trade deadline, 20 percent of the league engaged the Suns regarding Durant’s availability.
Teams that showed interest included Dallas, Golden State, Miami, Houston, Memphis, and Minnesota.
Following the deadline, KD shared with reporters, “It’s just part of the business. Everyone gets bought and sold in this league. Anyone can be put up for auction, so I understand…I’ve always tried to fulfill my contract and see where that takes me. I can’t focus on a year and a half down the line. I know this will be a topic.”
Windhorst, however, expressed feeling “really frustrated” with the Suns for their participation in trade discussions.
The Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, and Houston Rockets remain poised to chase KD, with expectations of making one final bid to acquire him in a trade package come summer, according to Windhorst.
Nevertheless, NBC Sports indicates that it may be in Phoenix’s best interest to keep KD for another season.
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