Insider says Suns are done trying to accommodate Kevin Durant

The Suns appear to have stopped trying to acquiesce to Kevin Durant's wishes and are focused on the best move for their franchise.

It was earlier reported that Durant had a wish list of teams he'd prefer being traded to, namely the Heat, Spurs and Rockets. According to The Athletic's Sam Amick, the Suns are no longer focused on getting a deal done with one of the three teams due to the offers they've received.

"We're in phase 2 of these discussions," Amick said. "Phase 1 was the Suns playing nice and saying, 'Listen, yes, we'll talk to the three teams on your list and get something done.' Phase 2 is, 'We're not feeling this. Now, we need you to meet us in the middle.'"

Amick added that the Timberwolves, who don't feature in Durant's short list, have made superior offers to the Heat, Spurs and Rockets. Still, the Suns have hesitated to pull the trigger, fearing backlash. With the NBA Draft fast approaching, the Suns may be compelled to accept the best trade package, especially if draft assets are involved.  

Several other analysts have urged the Suns to prioritize their interests instead of accommodating Durant's wishes. However, complications arise from the fact that the veteran forward has only one year left on his contract and is reportedly unwilling to sign an extension with any team not on his short list.

In 2018, the Raptors took a chance on acquiring Kawhi Leonard, even though the defensive ace listed only L.A.-based teams on his short list. The gamble paid off, as Leonard led them to a championship before leaving for the Clippers as a free agent the following year. 

Perhaps a team could similarly roll the dice on Durant as a one-year rental.