Suns, Durant Eye Pre-Draft Trade; Raptors Emerge

Kevin Durant is expected to be traded by the Phoenix Suns before the 2025 NBA Draft, with the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves regarded as the leading contenders. The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs have shown interest, but trades with those teams appear unlikely due to either Phoenix's lack of interest in their players or their reluctance to part with top prospects. Durant and the Suns have mutually agreed to pursue a trade, focusing on landing him with a title-contending team. The Timberwolves are considered a strong candidate, with analysts highlighting the potential impact of pairing Durant with Anthony Edwards. The Rockets are also in the mix, viewing Durant as a catalyst for playoff success. The Toronto Raptors have emerged as a surprise suitor, reportedly willing to take a risk on Durant despite his expiring contract, in a move reminiscent of their 2018 acquisition of Kawhi Leonard.