The Phoenix Suns will have many decisions to make in the offseason. A few big ones have already been made, as the Suns fired head coach Mike Budenholzer following an abysmal 36-46 season.
Another key move was the Suns' installation of Brian Gregory as the new general manager, with James Jones moving into a senior advisory position. With the new general manager having a close relationship with owner Mat Ishbia, they geared up to make more crucial decisions this summer.
Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels dribbles while defended by Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant.
Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels dribbles while defended by Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant.
Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Timberwolves' Kevin Durant decision shows urgency
At the February trade deadline, it was rumored that the Suns were looking to move Durant. According to The Stein Line's Jake Fischer, the Minnesota Timberwolves were very interested in making a deal happen.
"League sources say Minnesota indeed made serious trade inquiries for Durant before the Feb. 6 trade deadline, contacting at least one Eastern Conference club about functioning as a facilitator to help two luxury tax teams that had strayed beyond the second apron combine on a massive in-season maneuver," wrote Fischer.
The Suns opted not to move the 15-time All-Star and attempted one more push to make one of the spots in the NBA Play-In Tournament. At first, it appeared that the Suns had a chance to do exactly that. But an ankle injury to Durant put those dreams to rest and they finished as the No. 11 seed in the Western Conference.
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) against Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35).
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) against Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35).
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
After the Timberwolves' season came to an end in a 4-1 series loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, they likely know they can't just run it back with the same squad. Adding Durant to a team like the Timberwolves to play beside Anthony Edwards, considering the two already have a friendship, could make them lethal to deal with next season.
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Timberwolves are slight favorites over the Houston Rockets to land Durant if Phoenix decides to trade him