The Phoenix Suns have discussed potential trades centered around Kevin Durant with multiple teams, but they may have to reduce their asking price if they want to complete a deal before the NBA Draft.
Rival teams believe the Suns have placed too high of a value on Durant in trade discussions, Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic reported on Tuesday. Phoenix is said to have “no leverage” in negotiations because Durant will turn 37 in September and has made it clear he wants to be moved.
There is also the issue of Duran’t contract. The 15-time All-Star is owed $54.7 million in the final year of his deal next season. Durant will be eligible for a two-year extension worth up to $112 million if he signs a new deal this summer. If Durant were to wait six months after being traded, he would become eligible for a two-year deal worth up to $124 million.
Though he continued to play at an elite level this season with 26.6 points per game, Durant is in the twilight of his career and has a somewhat troubling injury history. That is why teams are likely hesitant to give up significant assets in a trade and then sign the two-time NBA Finals MVP to an extension.
A recent report suggested the Suns are not seeking multiple first-round draft picks in exchange for Durant. It is possible they have asked for young players that other teams do not want to part with, however.
Durant is reportedly only willing to sign an extension with three teams: the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets. The Suns are trying to work with Durant to send him to a team of his choosing, but that might be a lot easier said than done.
Phoenix wants the best offer for Durant, especially if teams have already balked at their asking price. There is at least one team that might be willing to trade for Durant even if Durant does not want to play for them.
The NBA Draft begins on June 25, so the Suns may start to feel more pressure as that date nears.
