Kevin Durant. Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Trade Idea Sees Kevin Durant Land With Historic NBA Franchise in Blockbuster Deal

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 3:56 PM ET

A bold trade proposal from Yahoo Sports’ Tom Haberstroh has sparked fervent speculation, envisioning Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant joining the New York Knicks in a seismic three-team deal with the Washington Wizards.

This blockbuster would see the Knicks acquire the former MVP and two-time NBA champion, pairing him with Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges to form a formidable Big Three at Madison Square Garden.

The trade would send Karl-Anthony Towns to Phoenix to reunite with Devin Booker for the first time since the two were Kentucky Wildcats in 2014-15, while the Wizards receive Miles McBride, Josh Hart, and retain their 2026 first-round pick.

Durant, still an elite scorer at 36, averaged 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting in 2024-25, offering the Knicks a proven playoff performer.

The move addresses New York’s defensive struggles exposed in the Eastern Conference Finals, where Towns’ defensive lapses led to Mitchell Robinson’s insertion into the starting lineup.

Durant’s two-way prowess and $51 million salary—compared to Towns’ $57 million next season—provide cap relief for a Knicks team that desperately needs it.

The Suns, meanwhile, gains an offensive force in Towns, preserving competitiveness without a full rebuild. The Wizards facilitate the deal, absorbing Hart’s contract for young talent and draft control.

While the Knicks are also eyeing Giannis Antetokounmpo, Durant’s acquisition feels more feasible, especially with his reported openness to a trade.

If Durant approves, this trade could elevate the Knicks into true contenders, blending championship experience with New York’s rising core.

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

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