Phoenix Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein recently addressed the ongoing relationship between the team and their star player, Kevin Durant, amid speculation about Durant’s contract status.
Durant is currently showcasing his talents on the Olympic stage, leading Team USA in scoring at Paris 2024. As he prepares to return to the Suns in September for training camp, Bartelstein provided insights into their relationship with the 36-year-old star and shared a minor update on his contract.
“The most important thing is Kevin loves being here, and we love having Kevin here,” Bartelstein said. “He’s focused on the Olympics, but we’re always having dialogue. The relationship is what matters the most, and it’s in a great spot. I talk to [Durant’s agent] Rich Kleiman all the time. Conversations are great not just on extension stuff, but on everything that’s going on.”
Durant is eligible for a contract extension, but the window closes on October 21. His current contract runs until 2026, so there’s no immediate rush to sign a new deal. Due to the over-38 rule, which limits the additional years a player over 38 can receive in an extension, Durant can only sign a one-year extension at this time.
Last season, Durant averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, maintaining his high level of play despite the Suns’ struggles. The team finished as the No. 6 seed in the West and was swept in the first round of the playoffs, revealing that the combination of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal wasn’t enough to make them contenders.
Durant was heavily linked with a trade to the Houston Rockets over the summer, but the Suns’ strong offseason might give him more reason to commit to an extension and aim for a championship in Phoenix.
The Phoenix Suns Are Pushing to Contend
The Suns made notable offseason moves, including signing Tyus Jones to address their point guard issues. Jones, a former backup guard for the Grizzlies, is known for his excellent decision-making. He took a one-year minimum deal to prove his value and re-enter free agency next season when more teams will have salary space.
The Suns also had a successful NBA Draft, selecting Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighadaro. While Ighadaro might not see much playtime this season, Dunn is considered one of the best perimeter defenders in recent drafts and could be a valuable defensive asset.
Hiring Mike Budenholzer as head coach was another significant move, replacing Frank Vogel. Budenholzer is expected to bring fresh energy and establish a winning culture for stars like Booker and Durant.
The role of Bradley Beal this season remains a question. He could potentially be more impactful as a sixth man behind a Jones-Booker backcourt, but that scenario seems unlikely. The Suns are poised to make a title run, but their stars will need to deliver if they hope to emerge as champions.
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