After the Minnesota Timberwolves were reported as frontrunners to land Kevin Durant, another update changed the outlook for the Wolves. On Saturday night, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Durant has three preferred destinations: the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, and Miami Heat. The Athletic reported that Durant has two preferred destinations, the Rockets and Spurs.
While it's unclear if Miami is among Durant's preferred destinations, the Wolves certainly aren't. The timing of these reports is interesting. Perhaps the Wolves or another one of his non-preferred destinations were close to landing Durant, and he wanted to change that.
The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant's preferred trade destinations out of Phoenix, sources tell ESPN. Those across the NBA have been made aware in recent days that those are the three teams that Durant would commit to long-term. pic.twitter.com/Hqn5hDaWxC
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 15, 2025
Why Durant might not want to be traded to the Wolves
At face value, it's curious why Durant wouldn't prefer a trade to Minnesota, as they offer him the best chance to win a title. Moreover, he has a known friendship with Anthony Edwards. Some people are speculating it's about market size. However, The Athletic noted one possible holdup is that Durant wants an extension, and the Wolves might not be willing to offer it.
"But needing to include so many elements in a deal for a superstar who will turn 37 before next season begins and could need a lucrative contract extension to be happy in Minnesota is a lot for the Wolves to consider." Timberwolves insider Jon Krawczynski wrote.
Durant is eligible to sign a two-year, $122 million contract upon being traded. If he waits six months, the number increases to $124 million. Undoubtedly, this is a big commitment for someone who will be turning 37 in September and has an extensive injury history. However, when you are trading for a star like Durant, you should be prepared to extend him. Despite his age, Durant is still playing at an elite level. Last season, he averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists.
The Wolves aren't out of the Durant sweepstakes just yet
Both ESPN and The Athletic noted that Durant's preference won't determine where he gets traded to. If the Timberwolves offer the best package, they could certainly still trade for Durant. The Wolves package would likely be centered around Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, and some form of young talent. This very well could be the best offer Phoenix gets, especially given their need for rim protection. For the Wolves, getting an elite creator next to Edwards is a priority, and KD would be an ideal fit.
Krawczynski brought up how Jimmy Butler originally preferred a trade to the Suns but eventually landed in Golden State. Shortly after Butler was dealt to the Warriors, they agreed to an extension. Golden State had a successful end to their season and reached the second round of the playoffs with Butler. The point is that these things can change fast, and Minnesota isn't totally out of the Durant sweepstakes despite his preferred trade destinations.