As the NBA Finals draws close to an end with Game 7 on Sunday night, the blockbuster Kevin Durant trade continues to brew in the background. It is picking up steam with four teams in the race, which includes the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While sources revealed Durant's preferences are the San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, and Houston Rockets, the Timberwolves are possibly offering the most appealing package for the two-time Finals MVP.
Many believe it is the best move possible for Durant, but there is pushback from Durant's apparent desire for a long-term extension. This includes former NBA player and current analyst Jay Williams.
The Suns are in talks with the Heat, Rockets, and Timberwolves about the deal, and Shams Charania reported that all the teams are only one or two pieces away from finishing the trade. People like Williams believe Minnesota is the optimal spot where he would thrive.
Throughout his career, Durant has proven to be a perfect running mate with fellow superstars. He succeeded with Russell Westbrook in the first half of his career, and he succeeded with Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, and Devin Booker.
Of course, all of them come with varying levels of success, but he tends to work well with other players on a similar skill ceiling. Edwards could be another teammate he would thrive alongside, as they have play styles that complement each other well.
Kevin Durant says Anthony Edwards is his “favorite player to watch.”
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 29, 2024
His full answer: pic.twitter.com/oJUT0eD583
It would be similar to how Durant and Booker look for Phoenix. They are scoring in the high 20s a night, but a mediocre supporting cast lets them down.
That won't happen in Minnesota because there is valuable depth and legitimate star power beyond Edwards with Jaden McDaniels serving as a fantastic teammate. The fit is enticing, and the Suns will only consider the team with the best package despite Durant's wishes.
Since Durant does not have a no-trade clause in his contract, the Suns are free to send him anywhere they want to. The deciding factor for the Suns is the package they will get in return for one of the NBA's greatest-ever players.
Phoenix already refused an offer from Houston that consisted of Jalen Green and the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. They are making players like Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard off limits.
The Rockets have reportedly offered Jalen Green and the 10th pick for Kevin Durant but have refused to include players like Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard, who the Suns have interest in, per @BrettSiegelNBA
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 20, 2025
“Jalen Green and the 10th pick in this year's draft… pic.twitter.com/3aXNvHCvry
That means the Heat and Timberwolves are the likely teams that can get him. As Williams argued, Durant fits well with Edwards. They have history from Team USA, but the Heat could also be promising due to players like Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
If the Timberwolves can give the desired package, the trade might push through. That means Durant will be playing for the Timberwolves, which will be awkward, given his refusal to put Minnesota in his desired landing spots.
The Suns are correct for asking for more because Durant is a generational talent. That means Phoenix wants a significant return because of Durant's production on the court. However, Minnesota could be the right place for him.
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