The Phoenix Suns made a significant move back in February 2023 when they traded a hefty portion of their assets to bring Kevin Durant over from the Brooklyn Nets. With aspirations of clinching their first Championship title, ensuring Durant remains in the fold for the long term has become paramount for the franchise. As Durant’s contract is set to expire in 2026, queries about his extension have been commonplace following the preseason practices.
“I’m not really thinking about it right now. My focus is entirely on playing out my existing contract and dedicating myself to the team. I haven’t had any serious discussions regarding a contract extension. My concentration is strictly on basketball,” Durant remarked openly.
He added, “I’ve been fortunate enough to be in this position for 18 years, and the financial aspect isn’t what drives me at this stage. My goal is to keep improving and see just how good I can become; that remains my primary focus. When the right time comes to address the contract situation, I’ll cross that bridge then. Presently, I have two seasons left on my current deal and that’s where my attention will reside.”
Currently, Durant is contracted for both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, implying that any decision regarding his contract is still a while away. In the fast-paced world of the NBA, however, the extension-eligible superstar has ample time to consider his future with the Suns, although he appears disinterested in rushing into a decision.
This season, Durant is slated to earn $51.1 million, with an increase to $54.7 million next season as he turns 37. He stands in a position to sign either a lucrative one-year extension worth $59.5 million or a more substantial two-year extension valued at $123.8 million.
Should Durant opt for a two-year deal, it would set the stage for his entry into his 21st NBA season, a noteworthy achievement in the realm of longevity within the league.
In light of the Suns’ ambitions for a championship run this season, it’s crucial for the franchise to maintain Durant’s focus on basketball and the pursuit of victory. Additionally, they will aim to solidify his future with the team, particularly to stave off potential advances from rival franchises, with the reportedly eyeing a chance to swoop in on Durant.
Josh Bartelstein, the CEO of the Phoenix Suns, confirmed that discussions regarding an extension are ongoing, highlighting the positive rapport the team enjoys with Durant. “The key factor is that Kevin enjoys being with us, and we relish having him here. He’s currently focused on the Olympics, but our communication is continuous. It’s all about the relationship, and that’s currently in a fantastic place. I regularly communicate with Kevin’s agent, Rich Kleiman, so we’re in sync on various matters beyond just contract extensions,” Bartelstein stated.
Last season, Durant posted impressive averages of 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, showcasing his ongoing prowess without any significant signs of regression. As he looks to lead the Suns to a formidable position following a disappointing first-round sweep against the Minnesota Timberwolves, new additions like Ryan Dunn, Tyus Jones, and Monte Morris hint at a potentially threatening roster in the Western Conference.
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