Durant's name has swirled through the rumor mill for a while now, much to his initial surprise. When Phoenix cut ties with former coach Mike Budenolzer upon completion of its colossally disappointing (and wildly expensive) campaign, ESPN's Shams Charania relayed that the club "is expected to engage in trade discussions involving Durant."

The Milwaukee Bucks wanted to improve their roster and executed a mid-season trade during the 2024-25 campaign. The Bucks moved on from Khris Middleton, dealing the former All-Star to the Washington Wizards for Kyle Kuzma.