Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The Phoenix Suns’ disappointing NBA season has sparked speculation about potential roster changes despite owner Mat Ishbia’s assurances that the team will remain intact next season.

Kevin Durant has been the subject of trade rumors for months. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith suggests the Los Angeles Lakers would be a good fit for Durant, citing his close friendship with LeBron James.

“Personality-wise, I think the perfect place for him would have been the Lakers because of LeBron,” Smith said. “I’m just talking about his personality, not whether it would fit cap-wise.”

The Suns faced numerous challenges this season, including injuries, inconsistent play, and a lack of depth. Despite flashes of brilliance, the team’s overall performance was disappointing, fueling speculation about the franchise’s future.

While changes might benefit the Suns’ hands are tied due to significant contracts. Durant will likely remain with the Suns next season, but if the team struggles again, he might request a trade.

If that happens, the Lakers could be a potential landing spot, though a trade seems unlikely due to salary cap constraints. Other teams, like the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Brooklyn Nets, could also make a play for Durant.

The Suns’ future remains uncertain, with many questions surrounding the team’s roster and coaching staff. As the offseason approaches, fans and analysts will watch closely to see what moves the Suns make to improve their chances of success in the 2024-25 season.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Giants place left-hander on 15-day IL with ankle sprain
Oilers crush Panthers in Game 4, stay alive in Stanley Cup Final
Dodgers ace leaves game against Royals due to triceps tightness
Sam Mayer uses overtime restart to win Xfinity Series' return to Iowa
Liberty forward pushes herself into MVP conversation with big game vs. Aces
Tiger Woods makes big admission about his U.S. Open future
Cubs P 'Mike' Imanaga continues hot start vs. Cardinals
Celtics' All-Defensive guard reportedly could replace Kawhi Leonard on Team USA
Tee Higgins' contract decision adds pressure on Bengals in 2024
One-time Defensive Player of the Year open to reunion with former team
College baseball has become too regional for its own good
Three Padres prospects who should be untouchable in trade talks
Connor McDavid's history-making night helps Oilers stave off elimination
Astros scratch Justin Verlander as nightmare season continues
Watch: Oilers chase goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky from Game 4
Watch: Rockies third baseman takes advantage of Pirates laziness' to steal home
Pirates place young catcher on concussion IL
Watch: Game 4 of Stanley Cup Final gets off to chaotic start
Rockies 1B, former NL MVP diagnosed with internal oblique strain
NBA insider shares update on J.J. Redick's candidacy for Lakers HC job