Westbrook on Durant: ‘Got to move forward’

The San Antonio Spurs have been linked with a blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but they could also consider a more affordable shorter term deal for Kevin Durant. The Spurs hold the No. 2 and No. 14 pick in the draft along with a number of additional future draft assets they could use in a deal for Antetokounmpo, Durant or another player.

“There was mutual interest at the deadline,” said Shams Charania about Durant and the Spurs. “I think they’re going to be looking very actively to see if there’s a wing player we can bring in that could take us over the top.”

The Phoenix Suns were also close to a deal involving Durant with the Golden State Warriors, but he expressed a reluctance to return to one of his former teams. Durant played collegiately at the University of Texas in Austin, which is approximately 75 minutes north of San Antonio. Durant would give the Spurs a versatile scorer they could slot beside Victor Wembanyama in multiple lineup configurations.

Durant is signed through the 25-26 season and could sign for up to $120 million over two seasons. The Suns reportedly have initiated Durant trade talks as they also search for a new head coach.

During the 24-25 season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 62 games for the Suns. Durant was traded by the Brooklyn Nets to the Suns at the 2023 trade deadline.