The NBA offseason always delivers its fair share of chaos, but whenever Kevin Durant’s name enters the trade conversation, the entire league stops to listen. And when it’s Shams Charania—one of the most respected insiders in the game—dropping details, you know it’s real. In a recent report, Shams lit up social media timelines as he revealed several teams actively pursuing Durant in trade talks. The implications? Potentially franchise-altering moves that could shift the balance of power across both conferences.
Let’s dive into the details. ✍️
The Durant Situation
Kevin Durant, a generational scorer and two-time NBA champion, remains one of the most sought-after players despite entering the latter phase of his career. Currently with the Phoenix Suns, KD is still playing elite basketball. But after a disappointing playoff exit, whispers around the league suggest the Suns may be open to reconfiguring their roster. With Bradley Beal and Devin Booker already locked in, Phoenix faces financial constraints and limited depth. Trading Durant, though shocking, could bring much-needed assets and flexibility.
That’s where Shams comes in.
In a report that immediately went viral, Shams named several teams that have reached out to gauge the Suns’ willingness to move KD. The usual suspects are there—contenders looking to go all-in—but also a few surprises that hint at just how much value Durant still holds.
1. New York Knicks
No surprise here. The Knicks have been lurking in superstar trade talks for years, and Durant was once linked to them in free agency before ultimately choosing Brooklyn in 2019. Now, with a strong core led by Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and rising star OG Anunoby, New York could be just one piece away from a Finals push.
Shams reported that the Knicks have “internally discussed” packaging multiple picks, young talent like Quentin Grimes and Mitchell Robinson, and possibly Randle to bring Durant to Madison Square Garden. The appeal? Durant would be returning to his hometown area—and possibly rewriting the narrative from his Nets tenure.
2. Miami Heat
Pat Riley is always in the mix when a star becomes available, and Shams confirmed the Heat are “seriously exploring options” to land Durant. After losing in the Finals in 2023 and a first-round exit in 2024, the Heat know their window with Jimmy Butler is closing fast. KD would be a dream fit in Erik Spoelstra’s system: versatile, unselfish, and lethal in crunch time.
While Bam Adebayo is untouchable, Miami’s package could include Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and multiple first-rounders. Add KD to a healthy Jimmy and Bam? That trio immediately becomes a top threat in the East.
3. Golden State Warriors (Yes, again)
This is the spicy one. Shams said the Warriors have “quietly checked in” with Phoenix, not as a publicity stunt, but out of genuine curiosity about a reunion. KD won two titles with the Warriors and still maintains relationships with several players, including Steph Curry.
Would a reunion be possible? It would likely involve Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and picks. The real challenge would be navigating the salary cap, but if KD gave the green light, Golden State’s front office would at least try to make it work. Twitter already exploded at the idea of a Curry-KD reunion tour.
4. Toronto Raptors
Here’s the shocker: the Raptors. Shams reported that Toronto has “re-engaged in discussions” around Durant, similar to what they did with Kawhi Leonard in 2018. Masai Ujiri has never been afraid to make bold moves, and the Raptors have a mix of young talent and draft capital that could tempt the Suns.
While it may be a long shot, a package involving Scottie Barnes (unlikely), RJ Barrett (more likely), and picks has reportedly been floated. The Raptors may not be top contenders, but they’ve shown a willingness to roll the dice if the upside is high enough.
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid needs help. That much is clear after another early playoff exit. Shams mentioned the Sixers as a team “monitoring the Durant situation closely,” especially with cap space opening up following Tobias Harris’ expiring contract.
Philly could potentially offer a sign-and-trade involving Tobias, Tyrese Maxey (if they dare), or future first-round picks. Pairing KD with Embiid would form one of the deadliest duos in the NBA, instantly putting the Sixers in championship contention.
What’s Next?
Durant has not publicly requested a trade, and Phoenix has not confirmed they are actively shopping him. However, Shams emphasized that several teams are “preparing offers” in case the Suns pivot toward retooling around Booker. KD, under contract for multiple seasons, has no leverage to dictate where he goes—but his influence is undeniable.
Social media exploded once Shams’ tweet dropped. NBA fans flooded X with jersey swaps, trade machine screenshots, and wild hypotheticals. Reactions ranged from “KD to the Knicks would break New York” to “Don’t let KD go back to Golden State… AGAIN 😭😭.”
Final Thoughts
As the offseason heats up, one thing is clear: Kevin Durant still moves the needle. Whether he stays in Phoenix or lands with a new contender, the NBA landscape is poised for major change. And as always, when Shams talks, the league listens.
Grab your popcorn — the Durant sweepstakes might just be getting started. ✍️
