Surprising Eastern Conference team emerges in Kevin Durant trade rumblings | Sporting News

Kevin Durant's trade rumors are heating up ahead of the NBA Draft, with the Phoenix Suns actively shopping him. One notable contender in the trade conversation is the Houston Rockets. Surprisingly, the Atlanta Hawks have also emerged as a potential suitor, despite still seeking a president of basketball operations. Reports indicate that Hawks ownership has shown interest in Durant, potentially looking to pair him with Trae Young, although both players excel with the ball in hand. The Hawks have draft assets, holding the No. 13 and No. 22 picks, which could appeal to the Suns in a trade. As the Hawks consider extending Young, their approach could signal whether they intend to contend or rebuild.

The trade rumors involving Kevin Durant will likely pick up in the weeks leading to the NBA Draft. The Suns have reportedly shopped Durant this offseason, and the Houston Rockets are one team linked to a Durant trade. Kelly Iko mentioned Phoenix is "reportedly aggressive" in a Durant trade, so there could be more rumblings coming from Phoenix. Well, another team has jumped into the conversation, although this one is a bit surprising: The Atlanta Hawks. Sam Amico of Hoops Wire mentioned the Hawks as a target even with them still trying to find a president of basketball operations. One league source told Hoops Wire not to be surprised if the Hawks get involved in the Kevin Durant sweepstakes. While they have yet to hire a president of basketball operations, team ownership has already inquired internally about Durant, sources said. The Hawks potentially acquiring Durant and pairing him with Trae Young could be a fun duo to see on the floor, although both players love to have the ball in their hands. Young is also eligible for an extension this summer, so the Hawks giving him that deal could show their hand in either going all-in or attempting to rebuild. With the Suns searching for draft capital, the Hawks have the No. 13 and No. 22 picks in the upcoming draft, so either or both of those could be enticing to the Suns in a possible Durant swap. MORE KEVIN DURANT TRADE BUZZ Kevin Durant's trade chances get specific prediction from NBA insider

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