What the Jimmy Butler trade to Golden State teaches us about Kevin Durant saga and his next destination

Spurs and Rockets have the perfect trade packages ready for KD

San Antonio enters negotiations with an impressive arsenal of 13 first-round picks through 2031, including the second and 14th selections this year.

The Spurs can also offer established players like Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Harrison Barnes to match salary requirements.

Young prospect Stephon Castle could serve as the centerpiece that entices Phoenix to make a deal. His potential combined with San Antonio’s draft capital creates an attractive package.

Houston brings a different approach with proven young talents like Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, and Jabari Smith Jr.

All three players have NBA experience and could immediately help the Suns remain competitive while rebuilding their roster.

NBA insider believes Jimmy Butler is a good example to read Durant‘s situation

NBA insider Jon Krawczynski believes the Jimmy Butler trade saga offers important lessons for Durant’s situation.

Butler initially preferred joining Phoenix before his move from Miami to Golden State earlier this year.

However, the Suns’ salary cap constraints and Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause ultimately prevented that deal from materializing.

Butler eventually landed with the Warriors, where he’s helped Golden State reach the second round of the playoffs.

Dark horse teams could still steal Durant away

The Butler precedent suggests Durant’s preferred destination might not become reality. Teams like Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves remain actively pursuing the veteran scorer.

Minnesota could offer Rudy Gobert or Julius Randle to Phoenix, both capable of supporting Devin Booker effectively. Meanwhile, Durant can team up with Anthony Edwards to bring title to Minnesota.

The Timberwolves also have salary-matching pieces like Donte DiVincenzo and young prospects Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr.

The Heat presents another intriguing option with young center Kel’el Ware and two first-round picks, provided the trade occurs before this month’s draft.

Durant may have his preferences, but NBA history shows the market’s flexibility often sends stars to unexpected destinations. The coming weeks will determine where the future Hall of Famer continues his championship pursuit.