After months of rumors and speculation, Kevin Durant was officially traded to the Houston Rockets last week.
Multiple teams were in contention for Durant, but the Rockets came out on top with their trade package.
Speaking to ESPN Cleveland, Brian Windhorst got real about the Cleveland Cavaliers’ chances of getting Durant.
He said it all ultimately came down to Durant’s preference, and he simply did not wish to be a Cavalier.
“Kevin Durant did not want to be in Cleveland… if Kevin Durant would have wanted to be in Cleveland, talks would have continued,” Windhorst said.
"Kevin Durant did not want to be in Cleveland… if Kevin Durant would have wanted to be in Cleveland, talks would have continued," – @WindhorstESPN on the Cavs inquiring about KD…
WATCH: https://t.co/BferP5nIOc https://t.co/9TzzkAQ1s0 pic.twitter.com/4o2uDRfuWi
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 25, 2025
There were reports of the Cavaliers possibly offering Darius Garland in exchange for Durant, but the Phoenix Suns didn’t pursue that.
It turns out that is because Durant didn’t wish to play for Cleveland.
It’s somewhat surprising to hear that the Suns were so considerate of Durant’s wishes, because they ultimately had all the power.
They were able to move him anywhere and were reportedly looking out for what worked best for them.
So, while Durant didn’t want to play for the Cavaliers, the Suns also must not have been keen on the offer from Cleveland.
In the end, they walked away from the Rockets’ trade with some draft capital along with Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks.
Durant playing for Cleveland could have brought a lot to the team, but talks about that happening didn’t progress far.
They didn’t get him, but the Cavaliers might still make trades, and Garland may be on the move soon, even if he’s not headed to Phoenix.
NEXT: Brian Windhorst Says Cavs Are Actively Looking To Make Moves
