The Phoenix Suns are expected to trade Kevin Durant sooner rather than later. After failing to move him before the 2025 trade deadline, Durant finished the season out in Phoenix, although the Suns missed the playoffs.
It would come as no surprise if he is the first player traded this offseason. If the NBA Finals go to seven games, there will be three days between Game 7 and the NBA Draft, and Durant could feasibly be traded in that period.
The Toronto Raptors, if they can't land Giannis Antetokounmpo, are expected to make a move for Durant, and they could send the Suns exactly what they have listed as their asking price.
Before the season ended, it was speculated that the Suns would start the bidding at three first-round picks and a young player, plus matching salary.
That asking price seemed ideal for the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs, who are seen as the favorites to land Durant. However, they could drive the bidding down, and the Suns could be forced to take a lesser package.
Instead, if the Raptors get involved, Toronto could give the Suns exactly what they asked for.
Full Mock Trade Details:
Not only do the Suns get a solid young player in Barrett, but they bolster their frontcourt with Poeltl, who is one of the better shot blockers in the league.
While the Suns would love to nab the ninth pick in the draft, the Raptors will need to use it to draft Thomas Sorber or Derik Queen to replace Poeltl down low.
By the time the 2029 and 2031 picks are conveyed, the Raptors will no longer be title contenders with their new core, and the Suns should be able to flip those picks or hold onto them, finally adding quality young talent.
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