In a stunning and unexpected development, the Phoenix Suns have reportedly informed Kevin Durant that he will not be returning to the team “under any circumstances,” effectively ending one of the most high-profile chapters in the superstar forward’s illustrious career. The decision, confirmed by sources close to the organization, marks a dramatic shift for a franchise that just last year was seen as a legitimate title contender with Durant as a central pillar.
Durant, a two-time NBA champion, former league MVP, and perennial All-Star, joined the Suns via a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets in February 2023. Phoenix paid a steep price to acquire the 6-foot-10 scoring machine, sending away Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and a treasure trove of draft picks. The deal signaled a win-now mentality for a franchise desperately chasing its first NBA championship. Durant was expected to elevate the Suns to elite status alongside Devin Booker and, later, Bradley Beal.
However, things never fully clicked.
While Durant’s individual numbers remained impressive—he averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5 assists during his time in Phoenix—the team as a whole struggled to develop consistent chemistry. Injuries, questionable roster depth, and multiple coaching changes disrupted the Suns’ trajectory. Their most recent playoff run ended in disappointment, as they were bounced in the first round, leaving many to question the team’s construction and long-term direction.
The front office’s decision to part ways with Durant reportedly stems from a combination of factors: his large salary, age (he turns 37 in September), and increasing tension behind the scenes regarding the team’s direction. Sources suggest that Durant had grown frustrated with the Suns’ inconsistent rotations, lack of defensive identity, and perceived lack of urgency from the coaching staff and management. On the flip side, Phoenix leadership—led by new team president James Jones and owner Mat Ishbia—was said to be increasingly wary of Durant’s influence in personnel decisions and his long-term fit on a team in transition.
By informing Durant that he will not return “under any circumstances,” the Suns have drawn a hard line. It’s an unusually blunt message for a player of Durant’s stature, indicating a total organizational reset may be underway. The Suns are reportedly looking to reshape their roster around Devin Booker and younger, more defensively versatile players. In addition to Durant, there are rumblings that the team may also explore options for Bradley Beal, whose fit alongside Booker and Durant was questioned throughout last season.
Durant’s exit will undoubtedly dominate the NBA’s offseason conversation. Despite his age and injury history, he remains one of the most lethal scorers the game has ever seen, and multiple contenders are expected to express interest in acquiring him. Teams like the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, and even a possible reunion with the Golden State Warriors could be in play, depending on how the trade market develops and whether Durant is amenable to a buyout or sign-and-trade scenario.
Durant himself has not issued a public statement, but sources close to the 15-year veteran say he was “surprised but not entirely shocked” by Phoenix’s decision. Known for his candid social media presence and no-nonsense approach to basketball, it will be intriguing to see how he responds—publicly and privately—to the Suns’ message.
This situation also raises serious questions about Phoenix’s immediate future. Having mortgaged much of their draft capital to acquire Durant, the Suns now face the challenge of rebuilding a competitive roster with limited flexibility. Removing Durant’s max contract from their books would free up significant salary cap space, but replacing his production—on both ends of the court—will be no small task.
As the NBA enters the heart of its offseason, all eyes will be on what comes next for Kevin Durant. One of the game’s most gifted and controversial figures is now a free agent in all but name, and whichever team lands him could be acquiring the final piece to their championship puzzle. Meanwhile, in Phoenix, the Suns are poised to enter a new era—one without the towering presence of Kevin Durant, and one filled with uncertainty, potential, and the lingering weight of what could have been.
