Timberwolves emerge as favorites to acquire Kevin Durant

The Minnesota Timberwolves are emerging as the most likely destination for Kevin Durant, according to the latest trade rumors circulating in the NBA. After two consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances, the Minnesota franchise could make the Phoenix Suns superstar the missing piece to take a decisive step forward.

A « poker bluff » according to sources

According to Zach Lowe of The Ringer, the Timberwolves are generating the most buzz in the race for Kevin Durant, surpassing the Houston Rockets as favorites. This information is corroborated by NBA insider Jake Fischer, who reported Saturday that the Timberwolves and Miami Heat are « the two teams most frequently mentioned as potential destinations for Durant. »

The list of contenders has gradually shrunk since the initial reports from Shams Charania of ESPN, which originally mentioned the Timberwolves, Rockets, Heat, New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. Now, only Minnesota, Houston and Miami seem to remain in contention, with a possible deal this week according to Charania.

Negotiations are taking a particular turn, as Shams Charania explains: « The Suns know that if they’re going to trade Durant, they clearly have a price threshold they want to reach. One team told me today that it’s kind of a poker bluff at this stage. » He adds: « From the Houston Rockets to the Miami Heat to the Minnesota Timberwolves, they’re literally just one or two pieces away, one way or another, from completing a deal. »

Despite the Timberwolves’ interest, Durant has reportedly expressed preferences for Miami, San Antonio and Houston as « preferred trade destinations » and « three teams Durant would commit to with a long-term extension. » However, the Spurs don’t seem willing to meet Phoenix’s demands.

A notable element: Anthony Edwards is not actively participating in Durant’s recruitment. According to Marc J. Spears of ESPN: « He’s in Atlanta training. He likes his former teammate. He likes his current teammates. Some people close to me said he’s focusing on what’s ahead for this team. »

At 36, Durant remains one of the NBA’s most efficient offensive players, averaging 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists this season. His pairing with Edwards could create a formidable duo in the Western Conference.