Kawhi Leonard Named in Kevin Durant Trade Report on Sunday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 15, 2025 6:13 PM ET

Kevin Durant enjoyed another prolific season with the Phoenix Suns in 2024-25, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 62 games. He earned his 15th All-Star selection, eclipsed 30,000 career points, and maintained elite efficiency—shooting 52.7% overall and 43% from three.

However, despite Durant’s breathtaking individual brilliance, team results fell short yet again. The Suns failed to reach the playoffs, finishing 36-46, a result that eventually led to the dismissal of head coach Mike Budenholzer.

Due to the Suns’ disappointing season, trade speculation around Durant has dominated headlines all summer. Phoenix’s decision to trade him appears imminent, with league experts suggesting his tenure in Arizona will end as the franchise seeks to maximize return and shed luxury tax burden.

His expiring $54.7 million contract adds urgency to both sides—Suns hoping for elite assets, Durant pursuing a true title contender.

Now, an unexpected suitor has emerged. On Sunday, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst revealed on SportsCenter that the Toronto Raptors are “lurking” in the Durant sweepstakes—even though they’re not among his top-preferred destinations. Windhorst compared the situation to Toronto’s 2018 trade for Kawhi Leonard: a bold one-year gamble to chase a championship.

"This is somewhat reminiscent to what happened in 2018 when Kawhi Leonard was a free agent," Windhorst said.

The Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly “lurking” in the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, per @WindhorstESPN pic.twitter.com/M02bKqAEPj
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 15, 2025

Toronto's interest makes sense. With a current core of Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett, plus budding depth, the Raptors have the cap space and draft currency to propose a plausible trade—especially for a rental who could push them into serious playoff contention.

If acquired, the Raptors will add a four-time scoring champion and former league MVP in Durant, known for his offensive assets and killer instinct. His ability to stretch defenses with lethal shooting and reputation for high performances over the years would dramatically raise the ceiling for a team poised on the fringe of the Eastern Conference's upper tier.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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