Kevin Durant’s future in the NBA remains a major talking point, and several teams are preparing to make a push for the superstar forward. While the Houston Rockets have emerged as a top suitor, sources indicate that the San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder have also expressed interest in acquiring Durant. The battle for KD is shaping up to be one of the most compelling narratives in the league.
Houston Rockets’ Bold Pursuit
The Rockets are looking to transition from a rebuilding team to a championship contender, and Durant is at the center of their plans. With a young and talented core, Houston’s front office is focused on adding a proven superstar to lead them forward. Durant’s admiration for Houston’s basketball culture and growing talent pool makes the city a strong contender for his services.
But Houston’s appeal extends beyond basketball. Durant has deep ties to Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, who was an assistant with the Brooklyn Nets during KD’s tenure there. Their strong working relationship could be a crucial factor in any potential move. Additionally, Rockets assistant coach Royal Ivey is one of Durant’s closest friends—so much so that Durant is the godfather to Ivey’s daughter. This personal connection could weigh heavily in Houston’s favor.
Other Contenders: Spurs, Timberwolves and Thunder
While Houston is making a serious push, the San Antonio Spurs have quietly emerged as a sleeper team in the Durant sweepstakes. With generational talent Victor Wembanyama in place, the Spurs are looking for a veteran superstar to help accelerate their rebuild. Durant’s experience and scoring prowess could be the perfect complement to Wembanyama’s two-way dominance, making San Antonio an intriguing destination.
When Durant made his return to Austin, Texas, for a game at the University of Texas, it was the talk of the town. Not only was Durant returning to his alma mater, but another highly anticipated matchup between him and one of the league’s brightest stars was set to take place. “He’s on the right path to being one of the greatest we’ve ever seen,” the Suns veteran said of Wembanyama. “It’s just about going through those experiences in real time and learning from them to get better.”
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are exploring ways to pair Durant with Anthony Edwards. Sources say Minnesota was involved in trade discussions before the deadline, but hesitancy to part with Jaden McDaniels and other key assets put negotiations on hold. However, their interest remains strong as they seek to solidify their standing in the Western Conference.
Perhaps the most sentimental possibility is a return to Oklahoma City. The Thunder have been patiently building a contender through their vast collection of draft picks and young talent. A reunion between Durant and OKC, where he won an MVP and reached the NBA Finals, would be a major full-circle moment. The question is whether Durant would embrace a return to his original NBA home.
Jeff Teague recently weighed in on Durant’s potential return to Oklahoma City during an episode of the Club 520 podcast, suggesting that while the Thunder may have interest, they won’t overpay for KD.
“KD got to go,” Teague declared, implying that the Suns may not get a massive return for him. “I wouldn’t give up my team for KD. Not saying KD ain’t great, we know he cold, but I’m not giving up my team.”
Teague, who played against Durant and the Brooklyn Nets in the 2021 playoffs, emphasized that Oklahoma City already has one of the best rosters in the Western Conference.
“I give up three first-round picks,” Teague admitted. “And one of them young players. But it wouldn’t be Chet, Jalen, or Shai. You can’t even get Lu Dort. You can’t get Hartenstein.”
Durant Might Not Want to Go Back to OKC
It was rumored that before the Golden State Warriors landed Jimmy Butler, the Suns and Warriors were closing in on a deal that would have sent Durant back to The Bay before the superstar nixed the idea.
Durant reportedly didn’t want to play for a team he had already made a name for himself on and likely didn’t want to be in Stephen Curry’s shadow. Should he return to the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would remain the face of the franchise, forcing Durant to play second fiddle.
Unlike teammate Bradley Beal, Durant does not have a no-trade clause and could, theoretically, be traded anywhere. However, star players often have their wishes granted and with only one season left on his deal, KD could simply tell teams that he won’t re-sign with them.
If the Thunder agree to part ways with three picks and a young, key player, they will likely expect more than just a season of a disgruntled Durant, so the bidding might not make it outside of a podcast recording studio.
Trade Deadline Drama
Despite speculation, Durant was assured by Phoenix Suns owner Matt Ishbia that he would not be moved at the deadline. However, that didn’t stop teams from calling. The Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards and the aforementioned Timberwolves all inquired about Durant’s availability. The Wizards, in particular, attempted to offer a package centered around Kyle Kuzma and draft picks, but Phoenix declined.
Kyrie Irving’s Role in the KD Sweepstakes
Another factor in the Durant equation is Kyrie Irving. As one of Durant’s closest friends, Irving’s influence could play a role in determining KD’s next move. Irving’s decision to join the Dallas Mavericks was rooted in his desire to recruit more talent and compete for championships. His connection to Durant has long been a subject of speculation, and if Kyrie remains in Dallas, the Mavericks could re-enter the Durant conversation.
Kyrie’s recruitment efforts have already paid off, as evidenced by Klay Thompson’s decision to join the Mavericks. Additionally, Irving’s relationship with Anthony Davis dates back years, with both players now teaming up in Dallas. These connections could create ripple effects across the league, potentially influencing Durant’s next move.
Revisiting Durant’s Perspective on Legacy
In our one-on-one interview after being awarded the NBA’s Most Valuable Player Award back in 2014, Durant, then a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder, reflected on the legacy of Michael Jordan and his own career aspirations. When asked about Jordan’s impact, Durant acknowledged that the NBA legend changed the culture of basketball both on and off the court. “Michael Jordan changed the culture of basketball on and off the court. His legacy is much more than just what he’s done with championships. I hope to be able to drive change like he did both on and off the court and follow in the footsteps he laid out.”
Durant also spoke about leadership and mentorship, discussing how experience has been his greatest teacher. “Experience is the best teaching. I’ve been through just about everything in 25 years. I’m one of those guys who has to go through something in order for me to learn and get better from it.”
Additionally, Durant shared wisdom he received from Karl Malone. “I had the chance to talk with Karl Malone over All-Star weekend—someone I looked up to as a kid. He had some great advice for me in how he approached the game every single day… My hope is that I can be like Karl was to me to kids today and be a role model for them to learn how to be strong and kind on and off the court.”
The Rockets and Beyond: What’s Next for KD?
Houston remains aggressive in its pursuit of Durant, but the competition is fierce. The Spurs, Timberwolves, and Thunder all present compelling cases, and Phoenix remains determined to keep its superstar. The landscape is shifting, and the NBA world is watching. As teams position themselves for a run at Kevin Durant, the race is just beginning.
