Ex-Lakers Guard Linked to Raptors After Kevin Durant News
Ex-Lakers Guard Linked to Raptors After Kevin Durant News originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
After missing the playoffs once again this year, the Toronto Raptors could be aggressive in the trade market this offseason in hopes of bolstering their roster. More specifically, the Raptors have been linked to Phoenix Suns star and two-time NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant.
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While nothing is imminent, many expect the Suns to move on from Durant in the offseason, and the Raptors have been linked to him up to this point. However, according to recent reports, the Suns star may not be interested in joining Toronto as his preferred destinations are the San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, and Houston Rockets (h/t Shams Charania of ESPN).
Following the latest Durant news, the Raptors have been linked to a former Los Angeles Lakers guard as a potential backup option.
Toronto Raptors Vice-Chairman and Team President Masai Ujiri.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
While landing Durant would likely make the Raptors immediate playoff contenders, there will be a big market for the former NBA MVP, meaning a trade would be difficult for them to execute. Just in case they cannot land Durant, the Raptors must have a "Plan B," and there is one specific player they may have in mind.
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If the Raptors do not acquire Durant, they may pivot and instead pursue Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (h/t Kris Pursiainen of ClutchPoints). According to Pursiainen, the Raptors have had interest in the former Lakers guard and may have pursued a deal for him ahead of February's trade deadline.
"If a trade with the Phoenix Suns for Kevin Durant doesn't end up happening, league sources tell ClutchPoints they have other targets in mind. The Raptors have demonstrated interest in acquiring Kings guard Malik Monk in a potential trade, with that interest dating back at least to February's trade deadline," Pursiainen wrote.
Monk has spent the last three seasons of his playing career with the Kings, and he finished as the runner-up for the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. This past season, he averaged a career-high 17.2 points per game while shooting 43.9% from the field.
Though he is not at the same level as somebody like Durant, Monk still provides a lot of value and would give Toronto an additional scorer. If they cannot land their dream target, Monk is not a horrible consolation prize.
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Related: Kevin Durant to Raptors Trade Report Surfaces After Giannis Antetokounmpo News
Related: Raptors Predicted to Make NBA Draft Trade After Kevin Durant News
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
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