Suns Rumors: Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, Trade Chatter

According to a report earlier this week from The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, the Suns have made “multiple calls” to the Houston Rockets since the season ended and have slowly reduced their asking price for Durant in those conversations. But Arizona-based insider John Gambadoro strongly pushed back, calling that narrative “beyond untrue.”

Gambadoro, of Arizona Sports 98.7, said Phoenix hasn’t had contact with Houston about Durant since February. The Suns, he added, were focused on hiring a general manager and head coach — both now complete — before revisiting trade talks involving their star forward.

The timing lines up. Durant, 35, still has elite value, but his future in Phoenix remains murky following a disappointing season in which it missed the playoffs. And now that the front office is in place, the Suns can begin evaluating how far they’re willing to go in reshaping their roster, starting with Durant.

Knicks, Others Lurking in Durant Market

During a TV appearance Thursday, ESPN’s Shams Charania echoed a familiar note: the New York Knicks had mutual interest in Durant before February’s trade deadline and even made an offer. That deal never materialized, but Charania says New York could still be in the mix this summer.

A framework involving Karl-Anthony Towns — a former college teammate of Devin Booker — could make sense financially. But Gambadoro says Phoenix has no interest in Towns. Instead, if the Knicks want to re-engage, the Suns would prefer a package built around OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges.

Charania mentioned that roughly four to six teams are expected to pursue Durant this offseason. Previously reported suitors include New York, Golden State, Minnesota, Houston, San Antonio and Miami. Gambadoro added the Clippers to the watch list on Thursday.

Beal Situation Looms Over Plans

While Durant dominates the headlines, Bradley Beal may be the more complicated figure in Phoenix’s offseason puzzle.

According to Gambadoro, the Suns “don’t want to bring back” Beal, but moving him is a far tougher task. Beal still has nearly $111 million left on his contract over the next two seasons and carries a rare full no-trade clause. A deal at the trade deadline never gained traction, and one might not this summer either.

If a trade proves impossible, the Suns are expected to explore the possibility of a buyout. But there’s no indication Beal would agree to that, and the financial fallout could be significant.

In the meantime, Phoenix is preparing for all outcomes. Gambadoro said head coaching candidates were asked during interviews how they’d deploy Beal — a sign the Suns are at least open to keeping him if nothing else works.

For now, Durant remains the more likely trade chip. But with both of Phoenix’s stars potentially in flux, this summer is shaping up to be anything but quiet in the desert.