Suns Allegedly Decrease Kevin Durant Trade Calls for in Talks With the Rockets

The Phoenix Suns are mentioned to have turn out to be extra prepared to commerce Kevin Durant, as their early asking costs in talks with the Houston Rockets have softened over time. While the “Slim Reaper” is open to staying with the Suns, the story is kind of completely different this time.

According to a brand new report, Phoenix has pursued commerce discussions with Houston for the reason that finish of the season, however its worth for the 14-time All-Star participant has fallen considerably.

Phoenix Suns Show Urgency Amid Durant Trade Rumors

In a brand new report from The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, the Suns’ urgency is pushed by two main goals: unloading Durant and regaining management over their very own draft belongings, which have been despatched to Houston in change for a commerce with the Brooklyn Nets. The Suns are notably coveting the No. 10 decide within the subsequent NBA Draft, trying to reboot and rebuild their roster.

“Since the conclusion of the season, Houston has fielded several calls from Phoenix, who have since gradually lowered their asking price for Durant,” Iko wrote.

The Suns’ aggressive strategy suggests a doable shift towards youth and long-term sustainability over gasping by way of the ultimate few years of Durant’s contract with a win-now strategy that, up to now, has not produced significant playoff success.

Houston Rockets Remain Cautious Despite Interest in Durant

While the Rockets possess the draft belongings and rising expertise to make the commerce for Durant possible on paper, sources point out that there’s warning inside the Rockets’ group.

Our March report mentioned that the Rockets might be Durant’s subsequent cease, however it will nonetheless rely on the Suns’ supply within the package deal and if Houston is prepared to let go of a few of its core gamers.

While Durant affords established playoff expertise and scoring lineage, Houston is worried that the worth to acquire him would possibly upset their budding younger core.

With Durant at 36 and recovering from a number of accidents, the Rockets’ entrance workplace is fearful about his long-term worth, based on Bleacher Report. However, if the worth tag continues to say no, Houston might re-enter critical negotiations—particularly if Phoenix is prepared to take a look at draft picks over core gamers.

May Another NBA Team Poach Durant?

With the Suns additionally indicating a willingness to barter and decrease their asking worth, different franchises throughout the league would possibly view a chance to make a bid for the previous MVP.

Durant’s value, although softened considerably by age and damage, stays extremely important in gentle of his peak-level scoring, management skills, and playoff expertise.

If the Rockets don’t take the bait, a workforce who needs to maneuver as much as contender realm with a veteran star might problem the Suns’ dedication with an aggressive supply. Celtics might enter the dialogue as rumors prompt that the workforce is open to buying and selling a few of its vital items together with Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday.