The Phoenix Suns may have interest in trading away Kevin Durant this offseason, which could be behind the Houston Rockets’ acquisition of future first round picks via the Brooklyn Nets that originated from the Suns. Durant was acquired by the Suns at the 2023 trade deadline and they have had a pair of disappointing playoff runs over the past two seasons.
“I am reporting: pay no attention to what Phoenix is saying, they want out of Kevin Durant right now,” said Stephen A. Smith on First Take on Wednesday. “That’s number one.”
“Why would the Rockets do the deal, Molly? Why do it now?” said Brian Windhorst.
“Also, Houston doesn’t want Kevin Durant,” added Smith. “Ime Udoka may want him, but organizationally, they know they are not there yet. Their plans are more long range and they would prefer a Devin Booker, who they know there’s a slim chance they’ll get.”
Udoka was an assistant coach with the Nets overlapping with Durant. When Durant requested a trade from the Nets during the 2022 offseason, there was interest from him in going to the Boston Celtics when Udoka was still their head coach.
“Stephen A. is saying that,” said Windhorst. “I have no reason not to believe him. I’ll believe him. Devin Booker is fully committed to the Phoenix Suns. That’s where he wants to be. And he’s fully committed to Kevin Durant by the way. They’re looking forward to playing with each other starting next week when they get together for Team USA. They’re looking forward to playing their summer together. So from what I’m told, there’s no issue between KD and Booker. There’s no issue between the Suns and Booker. Booker has moved his entire life to Phoenix. He’s invested there. That’s where he wants to be. But the Rockets did this deal for a reason.”
Smith elaborated on the Suns’ interest in trading Durant as a response to the limitations of their roster and adding depth to their team while he maintains his trade value.