This offseason, there was speculation about the Phoenix Suns potentially trading star forward Kevin Durant following their disappointing first-round exit from the NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Additionally, reports of internal issues surfaced during the 2023-24 season. However, the Suns dismissed these rumors, and with the hiring of Mike Budenholzer as head coach, it became apparent that Durant would remain with the team.
Looking ahead, the Suns plan to continue with their core trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, despite the fact that they played together infrequently last season. Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein provided an update on Durant’s situation, noting, “He’s focused on the Olympics, but we’re always having dialogue. The relationship is what matters the most. The relationship is in a great spot.” Bartelstein also mentioned that discussions with Durant’s agent, Rich Kleiman, are ongoing and cover various topics beyond contract extensions.
Durant is currently participating in the Summer Olympics in Paris, where Team USA is preparing for a quarterfinal match against Brazil. After the Olympics, attention will shift to a potential contract extension for Durant. He is eligible to sign a one-year, $59.7 million extension that would extend through the 2026-27 season, making him the second highest-paid player in the NBA on a per-year basis, just behind Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics.