The Phoenix Suns faced a pivotal moment before trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. While the Minnesota Timberwolves were eager to acquire the 15-time All-Star, Durant's preferences played a crucial role in the negotiations. He made clear that Minnesota was not among his desired destinations, leading to the collapse of potential discussions involving a deal centered around Rudy Gobert and others. The Suns ultimately opted for a deal with the Rockets, which revolved around younger players like Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, potentially due to the higher upside they offer compared to the immediate impact of Gobert.

With only one year left on his contract, Durant wielded significant leverage, effectively shaping the trade landscape in his favor. While the Timberwolves' offer included impactful players and assets, the Suns' decision to prioritize a younger, higher-upside package from Houston ultimately changed both teams' trajectories this offseason.