Despite the Phoenix Suns’ public insistence that they have no plans to dismantle their trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, a league insider believes this might be a facade, suggesting they could entertain trade discussions this summer.
The Suns, boasting a powerful scoring trio, fell short of expectations this season. Their 49-33 record in the 2023-24 season and early playoff exit did not reflect well on the franchise. While their 2023 playoff performance was somewhat excusable due to Durant’s mid-season arrival, the recent season’s results were disappointing.
With three high-priced stars, the Suns’ front office faces significant challenges in enhancing the team’s supporting cast. This has fueled ongoing speculation about potentially breaking up the trio. Nevertheless, the organization has consistently stated that Durant, Booker, and Beal are staying put.
In an SNY column forecasting early offseason moves, NBA insider Ian Begley hinted that the Suns’ public statements might be strategic posturing. He suggested that Phoenix might engage in trade talks, particularly involving Durant.
“The Suns and Warriors will have at least exploratory talks on a trade that would land Durant back in Golden State,” Begley wrote. “Everything the Suns have said publicly suggests that they will run it back with their big three of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. But something is amiss there. So I predict that Phoenix will at least talk casually with teams about a potential Durant trade.”
Speculation about Durant rejoining the Warriors has been rampant, especially after Golden State expressed interest in trading for LeBron James during the season and seems intent on acquiring a third star, with Klay Thompson possibly departing this summer. Durant previously led the Warriors to three consecutive NBA Finals and secured two championships.
