Latest news with #KevinDurant
NBC Sports
an hour ago
- Sport
- NBC Sports
NBA Trade Rumors Roundup: Latest Kevin Durant trade rumors, Lakers search for center, more
With the NBA Finals going seven games, don't bet on a resolution to the Kevin Durant trade circus before Monday — the league does not want a trade upstaging Game 7. Not that a deal was imminent anyway, but with the NBA Draft on Wednesday, it's becoming a small window. Let's get into the latest trade buzz, starting with the latest on Durant. Kevin Durant trade latest Let's break down all the KD news via bullet points. • 'Game of Chicken' between Suns, Durant suitors. The Phoenix Suns are not going to trade Durant away for a lowball offer. They know they aren't going to get back what they gave up to get him, but they still expect a quality return. The teams Durant wants to go to — the Rockets, Heat, and Spurs — have yet to meet that threshold. ESPN's Shams Charania summed it up well as a 'game of chicken.' 'I had one team tell me today it's kinda a game of chicken at this point. From the Houston Rockets to the Miami Heat to the Minnesota Timberwolves, it's literally one or two pieces away, either which way, that can get a deal done. ... My understanding is they are in talks with those three teams specifically.' Along the same lines, the Rockets are betting that the price the Suns are asking for Durant will drop, reports ESPN's Brian Windhorst. This is how negotiations work. The question is, who blinks? Or does something else change that breaks the deadlock? • Does Durant want Timberwolves? Minnesota is one of those teams mentioned to be in talks with Phoenix, but it's not one of the teams on Durant's original list of preferred landing spots. Therein lies the conflict in getting a deal done, report Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. "[The Timberwolves] are said to be reluctant to go ahead with a trade unless they know Durant would embrace it.' By all accounts, Durant has no interest in the Timberwolves. Would Minnesota follow the path Toronto did with Kawhi Leonard and roll the dice on trading for him and hope he stays (Leonard didn't)? Minnesota seems unlikely to take that risk, considering their roster has made the Western Conference Finals consecutive years, but nothing is settled. • Grizzlies not pursuing Durant. Memphis landed four first-round picks in the Desmond Bane trade, which led to some speculation that they might try to flip those and insert themselves into the Durant sweepstakes. That's not happening, reports Fischer and Stein, which seems somewhat obvious. I feel like the Grizzlies saying they are not in the running for Durant is a lot like me saying I am taking myself out of the running to date Sabrina Carpenter. Still, the rumor persisted. Along those same lines, forget the rumors that the Grizzlies are going to trade Ja Morant or Jaren Jackson Jr. and rebuild. As previously reported here, league sources shot that idea down to NBC Sports. Or, take Morant's word for it. talkin bout the grizz more than the finals😂 wit these 🧢 ahh sources DeRozan becomes Durant fallback? There will be losers in the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, and Stein and Fischer suggested that some of those teams could turn their attention to Sacramento's DeMar DeRozan, who is considered available. DeRozan will be 36 next season, but is still a midrange assassin who averaged 22.2 points and 4.4 assists per game last season. If the Kings trade DeRozan in the coming days, it will likely be for a draft pick (and matching salary). They do not currently have a first-round pick, but are reportedly seeking one. Lakers talking to teams about centers The Buss family selling the Lakers: Surprise. The Lakers are reaching out to other teams about their centers: Opposite of a surprise. The worst-kept secret in the league is the Lakers looking for a rim-running center, so it's no surprise that Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points reports the Lakers have reached out to the Nets about Nic Claxton, the Jazz about Walker Kessler, and the Trail Blazers about Robert Williams III. All three of them have been linked to the Lakers in the past and are rumored to be available — as is another Lakers' target (and the best fit of that group), Daniel Gafford of Dallas — but because everyone knows the Lakers need a five other GMs are going to ask for the moon. Expect this to take some time to play out. The Lakers can keep the idea of signing Clint Capela or Brook Lopez to the taxpayer midlevel exception in their back pocket, but they should aim higher. 76ers want to move up from No. 3 pick in draft A report came out this week that the 76ers plan to run it back next season with Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, betting on better health. Of course they are, they don't have another choice. They are not going to trade the young Maxey. George is close to untradeable, considering his contract and his play last season, and the market for Embiid would not be what they hope for, either. Daryl Morey is also hoping he could move up one spot — from No. 3 to No. 2 in the draft, reports Marc Stein. That rumor has been circulating for a while, but it would take something very enticing to persuade the Spurs to part with the second pick and Dylan Harper, and the 76ers don't have that on their roster. Whatever happens with the No. 3 pick, don't expect it to be Ace Bailey, who is falling down draft boards around the league and cancelled a workout with Philadelphia. Bucks to be aggressive in upgrading roster The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade talk has tied down, and what Antetokounmpo told Brazilian publication Coast to Coast only seems to confirm that (translation by Eurohoops). 'The Finals are different, I hope to be back soon with the Bucks.' The Bucks were not close to making the Finals this season, and it's hard to picture how that changes next season with Damian Lillard out for most of it due to a torn Achilles. Still, they're going to try, reports Bobby Marks at ESPN. 'Sources confirmed to ESPN that Milwaukee will be aggressively exploring options in free agency and trades to complement Antetokounmpo.' The Bucks have the money to use the full $14.1 million midlevel exception, but they don't have much cap room if they plan to re-sign backup center Bobby Portis (and with Brook Lopez a free agent, they are expected to). Milwaukee can try to find a trade for Kyle Kuzma, but the return there would not be great. That said, look for the Bucks to try and do something, they need to show Antetokounmpo they are trying.
LeMonde
an hour ago
- Business
- LeMonde
Kevin Durant buys minority stake in PSG, eyes global expansion with Qatari owners
NBA star Kevin Durant has purchased a minority stake in Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain, the French soccer club said Friday, June 20. Qatar Sports Investments, PSG's majority shareholder, signed an investment and strategic partnership agreement with Durant, the club said in a statement. Financial terms were not disclosed. The announcement comes amid talks between the NBA, FIBA and other entities about the potential of adding a new league in Europe. Durant will provide expertise on the PSG's multi-port strategy, including potential expansion into basketball, the club said. "Under the terms of the partnership, Durant – via his media and investment company Boardroom, co-founded with long-time business partner Rich Kleiman – will acquire a direct minority stake in the club," PSG's statement said. The Phoenix Suns forward is a two-time NBA champion and became the first four-time men's gold medalist in Olympic basketball history when the US took gold at last summer's Paris Games . "It is an honor to partner with QSI and be a shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain – a club and city that is deeply close to my heart," the 36-year-old Durant said in comments provided by PSG. "This club has big plans and I look forward to being part of the next phase of growth and exploring new investment opportunities with QSI." As part of the deal, Boardroom Sports Holdings – Durant's personal investment vehicle, which holds stakes in a number of major sports teams and leagues – and QSI will join forces on a wide range of commercial, investment and content production initiatives. PSG added that Durant will support the club's diversification and growth strategy, as well as the club's development in the US and other international markets. "Together with Kevin, we look forward to developing ambitious initiatives that will drive the continued global growth of Paris Saint-Germain and QSI," PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi said.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kevin Durant to Grizzlies Trade Report Receives Major Update
Kevin Durant to Grizzlies Trade Report Receives Major Update originally appeared on Athlon Sports. While nothing is imminent, many expect the Phoenix Suns to trade star forward Kevin Durant this offseason. The Suns went 36-46 this past season and missed the postseason entirely, despite having the highest payroll. Advertisement After firing head coach Mike Budenholzer after one season, the Suns will likely undergo some big changes this summer, which may include moving on from Durant, who has one year remaining on his four-year, $194.2 million contract. Assuming Phoenix does explore trades for the star forward, there will likely be a plethora of teams interested in acquiring him, which could include the Memphis Grizzlies. However, recent reports have surfaced that may provide some clarity regarding Memphis' pursuit of Durant. Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35)Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Recently, Evan Sidery of Forbes reported that the Grizzlies are now pursuing a trade for Durant, which they reportedly attempted to do ahead of February's trade deadline. However, Grizzlies beat writer Damichael Cole took to X to refute Sidery's report, saying that the team is "not interested in trading for" the 36-year-old. Advertisement "Per sources: The Grizzlies are not interested in trading for Kevin Durant," Cole said on X. "They contemplated an offer at the trade deadline, but they haven't and don't intend to engage on a trade for Durant this offseason." Though it seems that they will not pursue a trade for Durant, the Grizzlies may continue to remain active in the trade market, which they already have been after sending Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. Despite a hot first half to the season, the Grizzlies finished this past campaign with a 48-34 record and were swept by the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs. As they aim to re-establish themselves as a legitimate contender in the West, Memphis may look to bolster their roster in the offseason, but they likely will not look in Durant's direction to do so. Advertisement Related: Desmond Bane's Honest Reaction to Grizzlies-Magic Trade Surfaces Related: Lakers Will Not Be Trading for $105 Million NBA Star This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kevin Durant Video is Going Viral Amid Trade Rumors
Kevin Durant Video is Going Viral Amid Trade Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports. A video of Kevin Durant showcasing his basketball prowess has gone viral, reigniting discussions about his future in the NBA. Advertisement The clip, shared by @cbrickley603 on Instagram, captures Durant in action on the court, demonstrating his signature skills and dominance. This comes at a time when trade rumors surrounding the Phoenix Suns forward are intensifying, with various teams speculated to be interested in acquiring him. The video, which features Durant maneuvering around defenders and making precise shots, has sparked a flurry of reactions online. Fans and analysts alike are marveling at his enduring talent, with many arguing that he remains one of the greatest players in basketball history. The timing of the video's release is particularly notable, as it coincides with reports that multiple teams like the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves have been pursuing a trade for Durant. Phoenix Suns star forward Kevin DurantJerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports Durant, 36, is coming off a season in which he averaged 26.6 points per game on a remarkable 52.7% shooting from the field, has shown he still has what it takes to lead a team to a championship. Advertisement Durant's social media activity and public statements have also fueled speculation about his next move. His recent interactions online, combined with his on-court performance, suggest that he is keenly aware of the narrative surrounding his career. As the NBA offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Durant and the Suns, with the possibility of a trade still very much in play. This viral video serves as a reminder of his exceptional abilities, keeping the conversation about his legacy and future destination alive. Related: Texas Football Gets Huge Update on Former 5-Star Recruit Wednesday This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Shams Reveals How Close Heat Are to Pulling Off Kevin Durant Trade
Shams Reveals How Close Heat Are to Pulling Off Kevin Durant Trade originally appeared on Athlon Sports. In a recent appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," ESPN insider Shams Charania provided a tantalizing update on the potential trade of Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Advertisement According to Charania, the Miami Heat are on the brink of finalizing a deal, with the Heat, Houston Rockets, and Minnesota Timberwolves submitting their final offers. The Suns, holding firm on their price threshold, are engaged in a high-stakes game of chicken with these suitors, as Charania was told by one team. Charania's insights suggest that the Heat are particularly close, potentially just "one or two pieces away" from meeting Phoenix's demands. This development comes as Durant, on an expiring contract worth $54.7 million for the 2025-26 season, could sign a lucrative extension post-trade. Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant (35).Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images The Heat's desperation, following their early playoff exit, contrasts with the Timberwolves' ongoing playoff run, making Miami a more aggressive contender. Advertisement Durant, coming off a season in which he averaged a stellar 26.6 points per game on 52.7% shooting from the field, has shown that he still has the talent to lead a team to a championship. The trade's complexity, possibly involving multiple teams, adds intrigue, with Charania hinting at scenarios that could branch into much more than a simple one-for-one exchange. As the NBA offseason heats up, the Heat's proximity to landing Durant could reshape the league's competitive landscape, offering Miami a chance to bolster their roster significantly. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as this saga unfolds, with the potential for a seismic shift in the NBA's power dynamics. Related: Kevin Durant Video is Going Viral Amid Trade Rumors This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
