Kevin Durant reportedly lets the Phoenix Suns know which are his 3 preferred trade destinations

The Phoenix Suns had a forgettable 2024–25 season in which they failed to even qualify for the play-in tournament. That left its mark, as the team’s top star, Kevin Durant, has been the subject of trade rumors dating back to before the deadline. While no move materialized then, it now seems possible—and three teams are reportedly the most appealing to the forward.

“The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant’s preferred trade destinations out of Phoenix, sources tell ESPN,” NBA insider Shams Charania wrote Saturday night on his X account. “Those across the NBA have been made aware in recent days that those are the three teams that Durant would commit to long-term.”

San Antonio has been mentioned frequently in recent weeks. A move there would be a blockbuster, positioning the Spurs back in the NBA spotlight after several disappointing seasons. Durant, alongside Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, and 2025 Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, could form a formidable core.

The outlook with the Rockets is also promising, given their roster is filled with talented young players who have already shown strong results: they finished second in the Western Conference during the regular season. However, a lack of experience cost them in the playoffs against the Golden State Warriors—something KD could help address.

Finally, the Heat are in a more uncertain situation. They had a turbulent year, reflected in their inconsistent performances. Following the departure of Jimmy Butler, the team is looking for a new on-court leader—and Durant could fill that role.

The Suns’ stance

While Kevin Durant’s preferences regarding his next destination seem clear, that doesn’t mean the Phoenix Suns are willing to let him go without a fight. The franchise understands it holds one of the league’s most valuable players, and even though the forward will be 37 when next season begins, they expect to get a strong return.

“Durant is on an expiring $54.7 million deal for 2025-26, and the Suns have made clear to six-to-eight seriously interested teams that they will make the best deal for the franchise – even outside of his preferred list of Miami, San Antonio and Houston,” Charania clarified.

A hint for the Spurs?

Speculation around Kevin Durant’s future has prompted talk about potential trade assets. One name mentioned in a possible deal with the San Antonio Spurs is Jeremy Sochan. The forward seems aware of the rumors—on Saturday, he shared several Instagram stories referencing Phoenix, Arizona, which many interpreted as a subtle hint about what’s to come.