Mar 26, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts after a foul call against the Boston Celtics during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Spurs Reportedly Targeting Celtics Star as Kevin Durant Replacement

Originally posted on San Antonio Spurs on SI
By Grant Mona | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 7:18 PM ET

With trade talks surrounding Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant heating up, multiple teams are starting to both gain and lose interest. Under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, it isn't easy to formulate a trade package that satisfies both parties, especially for an aging star such as Durant.

Sources: Phoenix Suns have 'no leverage,' may have to lower price to trade Kevin Durant (w/video) #Suns https://t.co/Ex4pmRz6CI via @azcentral
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) June 17, 2025

Earlier in the week, it was reported that Durant's preferred destination is the San Antonio Spurs. Durant has ties to Texas, having played at the University of Texas at Austin before getting drafted, so both the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs should be regarded as favorites.

Out of Kevin Durant's preferred trade destinations, he specifically wants to play for the Spurs, according to The Athletic. pic.twitter.com/gBG9cGlURa
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) June 17, 2025

As with every trade rumor in the offseason, multiple conflicting reports suggest different landing spots for highly regarded players, and Durant seemingly has control of his next destination.

A new report by Brett Siegel revealed some intriguing new information regarding alternative star players the Spurs could target should Durant get traded elsewhere.

"In fact, all has gone quiet in San Antonio over the last 48 hours regarding Durant, the 2025 NBA Draft, and other potential trade paths for stars around the league," Siegel wrote.

Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

He continued to say, "Internally, the Spurs have discussed what the aftermath of a Durant trade would do to their future, sources said. While there is a level of interest that exists, this organization will not sacrifice a big chunk of what they have built through the years for the aging star."

While the Spurs are definitely in the market for Durant, they also have their eyes set on some younger stars who may become available in the future.

Shams says that while KD is interested in joining the Spurs, they aren’t as interested in him as the Timberwolves or Rockets.

Shams says the Spurs would rather save their valuable assets to trade for a star more on their timeline.

via @PatMcAfeeShow pic.twitter.com/tXGHHvf5IJ
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) June 17, 2025

Siegel wrote, "Other than a potential trade for Giannis in the future, the Spurs have also monitored Jaylen Brown's status with the Boston Celtics through the years, sources said. Now that the Boston Celtics are primed to take a step back and are looking to cut costs, the 28-year-old Finals MVP is suddenly worth talking about."

The Spurs did not qualify for the Play-In Tournament, as Victor Wembanyama sat out the end of the season due to a blood clot in his shoulder. With the 2nd and 14th overall picks in the upcoming NBA Draft, the Spurs are expected to be active and aggressive during the offseason.

Kevin Durant Reportedly Wants Trade to One Specific NBA Team

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New Victor Wembanyama Video Goes Viral

This article first appeared on San Antonio Spurs on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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