New Twist in Kevin Durant saga could impact the Phoenix Suns

It seems the entire NBA world is focused in and monitoring the Kevin Durant situation with the Brooklyn Nets. Perhaps the Phoenix Suns are keeping an even keener eye, particularly given they were labelled a preferred destination when the two-time Finals MVP requested a trade over a month ago.

Now we’ve received an update on the circumstances around Durant’s trade request following a meeting between he and Nets’ owner Joe Tsai over the weekend.

How does Kevin Durant and Joe Tsai’s conversation affect the Phoenix Suns and their pursuit of the Brooklyn Nets superstar?

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Durant has proposed an ultimatum to Tsai in regard to the franchise – trade him or axe head coach Steve Nash and general manager Sean Marks.

"“In a face-to-face meeting with Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai over the weekend, All-NBA star Kevin Durant reiterated his trade request and informed Tsai that he needs to choose between Durant or the pairing of general manager Sean Marks and coach Steve Nash, sources tell the Athletic."

Durant also stated that he “does not have faith in the Nets direction”, an emphatic and brutal blow to the team’s front office and coaching staff. While this news has no great bearing for the rest of the league right now, it’s another chapter in what could eventually play out.

Most would discourage Tsai from choosing Durant over Nash and Marks. Doing so would again bring into question his leadership, particularly after compromises were made when Durant and Kyrie Irving first signed in Brooklyn.

However, you do have to ask yourself, who’s the most valuable asset? If that’s the sole question, then Durant is the answer. Perhaps there’s an outcome where Tsai comes to that conclusion. If that’s the case, then the Suns, like every other team, could each go back to their corners and prepare to face Durant on a Nash-less Nets.

It remains likely that Durant will be moved at some point, but until then, the influx of discussion and speculation is sure to remain elevated as the offseason progresses.