After missing the playoffs, the Phoenix Suns find themselves entering an offseason full of questions. The team has a very limited path forward, and it could see them move on from star forward Kevin Durant.
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The team almost moved Durant at the trade deadline, and many people around the league believe a deal is coming this summer. There have been a few teams linked with Durant as the offseason gets going, but where could he realistically land?
Here are the top five best landing spots for the former league MVP:
5. Milwaukee Bucks
Could the Bucks and Suns shock the NBA world by sending Durant to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo? This is a deal that probably wouldn’t happen, but what if Phoenix decided to tank for a season?
The teams could swap Durant for Damian Lillard, giving the Bucks two of the best scorers that the league has to offer. Lillard could take next season to rehab, and the Suns would then have him in the final year of his contract.
Wilder things than this have happened in the NBA.
4. Golden State Warriors
We can’t count out the Warriors until all is said and done with Durant. Golden State tried to land Durant at the trade deadline last year, but the interest wasn’t mutual from Durant’s side.
Maybe his mind gets changed, and decides that a trip back to the Bay Area could be worth his while. But the Warriors remain a dangerous suitor for the star forward due to a compelling package that they can offer Phoenix.
3. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are being linked with almost every star player that could be moved. Due to all the young players and tradeable draft picks, San Antonio has an opportunity to really cash in this summer.
Putting Durant around Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox could create a lethal big-three for teams to deal with. Look for San Antonio to be active this summer.
2. Cleveland Cavaliers
The biggest obstacle in this deal would be if Durant were willing to go to Cleveland. But this could give him a legitimate chance to win another title.
The Cavaliers have multiple pieces that they could send to the Suns for Durant, and he would get to pair alongside Donovan Mitchell. The Eastern Conference is much weaker, and Cleveland could instantly become the favorites if this deal went down.
1. Minnesota Timberwolves
After losing in the Western Conference Finals again, the Timberwolves could look to make a splash this summer. Minnesota had major interest in Durant at the trade deadline, and the two teams could revisit talks over the offseason.
Pairing Durant and Anthony Edwards could help get Minnesota over the hump, giving the team another “go-to” style of player. The Timberwolves have some assets that could intrigue Phoenix, sparking thoughts of a potential deal.
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