Phoenix Suns Consider Trading Kevin Durant After Trade Deadline

The Phoenix Suns' trade deadline did not meet expectations, particularly after failing to acquire Jimmy Butler, who moved to the Golden State Warriors. They executed minor trades with the Charlotte Hornets, exchanging Jusuf Nurkić and a first-round pick for Cody Martin and Vasilije Micić, leaving their core of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal intact. However, this lack of significant moves has led analysts to predict that the Suns may need to consider trading Durant in the offseason to alleviate financial pressures, particularly after trading away a valuable 2031 first-round pick. The atmosphere around the team has been described as tense and 'toxic' due to the trade rumors and failed negotiations. With a projected salary exceeding the tax apron threshold, the Suns will need to reassess their roster and potentially make major changes in the coming months. Overall, the team is now looking toward internal improvements for the rest of the season.