The Minnesota Timberwolves have been interested in acquiring Kevin Durant since trade rumors came up in February 2025. His time with the Phoenix Suns has not been the best despite their immense potential.
Unfortunately for the Timberwolves organization, Durant has not shown any interest in moving to Minnesota. That is a significant blow to their plans of surrounding Anthony Edwards with elite-level talent as they continue to fight for a chance at contending for a title.
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) shoots against Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) in the second quarter during game two of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Target Center.
Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
When rumors of a Durant trade surfaced in February 2025, the Timberwolves were immediately among the teams mentioned. Many people tried to discuss Jaden McDaniels being part of the package, but Minnesota never intended to include their star forward.
Phoenix made it appear that Durant was interested in a move to Minnesota back then, which has only left the Timberwolves confused when they tried to make the trade in recent weeks.
Durant And The Suns Has Left The Timberwolves Confused
Since getting Durant is such an appealing move for the Timberwolves, they wanted to jump on the opportunity. He is one of the game-changing players who could elevate the Timberwolves to championship contention.
Unfortunately, the Timberwolves' persistence is not paying off because Durant is not interested in playing in Minnesota. Of course, the Suns have the final say in a trade, but the Timberwolves do not want an unmotivated Durant playing for them.
"I think the Timberwolves are confused because in February, the Suns were sending a message to Minnesota that Kevin would be OK going there. They got that intel. Except found out that ‘Oh wait, you’re really not talking to Kevin. You don’t actually know how he feels.'" The Athletic's Sam Amick said to Run It Back.
This has left the Timberwolves in a precarious position because they would love to pull the trigger on a trade, but it has not worked out for them. They must make more marginal moves rather than going for the blockbuster acquisition of a superstar like Durant.
The Timberwolves Have A Big Offseason Coming Up
With the offseason already underway after the Desmond Bane trade to the Orlando Magic, the Timberwolves front office is under pressure. Team president Tim Connelly will make major decisions in the offseason to close the gap against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Timberwolves are already near the NBA Finals, as they reached the Western Conference Finals two years in a row. With some savvy moves in the market, the Timberwolves could surprise some people with their performance in the 2025-26 season.
It will be challenging to beat the rest of the Western Conference, but they must be smart with their moves. The moves could be for a new point guard or additional depth, the bottom line is Minnesota needs to make a big move.