Kevin Durant’s future with the Phoenix Suns is uncertain following an unceremonious elimination from the playoffs on Sunday in which his Suns were swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Durant has two more seasons left on his $194.2 million contract. However, he is eligible to discuss a contract extension with the Suns. According to Brian Windhorst, who was speaking on a recent episode of the Pat McAfee show, how Durant (or the Suns) approach those negotiations will inform us whether the veteran’s future lies away from the franchise.
“There’s this interesting moment happening,” Windhorst said. “Kevin Durant is eligible for a contract extension. He is 35 years old. He will turn 36 right before the next season starts in September. He has two years and $105 million on his contract. But because he’s eligible for a contract extension, it creates a moment for Durant and the Suns to comment on each other…If he doesn’t do an extension, or it becomes clear in June that he doesn’t want to, or the Suns doesn’t want to, you have some kindling for something to happen.”
Durant was dominant for the Suns this season. He played in 75 regular-season games, averaging 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds and five assists per game. He shot 52.3% from the field and 41.3% from three-point range. Yet, the Suns’ lack of a genuine playmaker and legitimate bench depth hindered Durant’s ability to guide them toward a championship.
Phoenix’s roster is top-heavy. The trio of Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal all need the ball in their hands to be effective. Given their lack of trade assets, the Suns could view Durant as a potential makeweight to help re-tool their rotation and provide some balance. Beal has a no-trade clause in his contract.
Whatever Durant and the Suns decide to do, they will expect far better than a first-round exit next season. Changes must be made. How those changes come about will be a question that lingers throughout the summer.
