The Phoenix Suns made an enormous change on Monday after they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer, and it feels like they may half methods with Kevin Durant subsequent.
Budenholzer has been fired after only one season with the Suns. The group gained 36 video games and missed the playoffs this yr regardless of having the best payroll within the NBA. One of many driving forces behind the choice was that Phoenix officers reportedly didn’t consider Budenholzer may coexist with Devin Booker, which had trickled right down to the remainder of the roster.
Budenholzer additionally butted heads with Durant throughout video games, which led to hypothesis that the Suns may fireplace the coach to appease their 15-time All-Star.
In accordance with ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Suns nonetheless would possibly commerce Durant. A number of groups have official curiosity in pursuing Durant this summer time, and Phoenix is anticipated to entertain these discussions. The Suns have additionally expressed a willingness to work with Durant and his illustration to discover a suitor that is sensible for all events.
The Suns are totally dedicated to Booker, who’s eight years youthful than the 36-year-old Durant. Bradley Beal has a full no-trade clause, so transferring him might not be an choice.
Durant continued to play at an elite stage this season. He averaged 26.6 factors, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists per recreation. Most groups would don’t have any drawback paying him the $55 million he’s owed subsequent yr, however Durant is alleged to be in search of a two-year, $120 million max contract extension. That might complicate commerce discussions.
The Suns entertained commerce affords for Durant on the deadline in February, however they have been reportedly asking for an enormous haul in return.
One Western Convention contender has already emerged as the favourite to land Durant if the Suns wind up buying and selling the two-time NBA Finals MVP.
