The question is, which of the three players would the Phoenix Suns trade? While they’d prefer to move Bradley Beal, his contract makes him nearly impossible to trade, so that option is likely off the table.
Next, Kevin Durant becomes a potential trade candidate, given his age compared to Devin Booker. Recently, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley suggested that a trade sending Durant to the Cleveland Cavaliers could benefit all parties involved. In this scenario, Phoenix would receive Darius Garland and Evan Mobley in exchange for Durant, who has two years left on a $198 million extension signed in 2021.
Buckley pointed out that Cleveland has long needed a star wing and a shooter with size, roles Durant could fill seamlessly. Even at 36, Durant remains one of the best scorers in the game and fits well alongside any roster due to his versatility. Pairing him with Donovan Mitchell would create tough matchups for opposing defenses. Additionally, Durant would allow Cleveland to maintain size and defensive flexibility at power forward without compromising floor spacing, a challenge posed by the Mobley-Jarrett Allen pairing.
For Phoenix, acquiring Mobley and Garland could help extend their competitive window while staying in the championship race. A core of Mobley, Garland, Booker, and Beal would still be strong, and the Suns could benefit from the youth and potential of Mobley (23) and Garland (24). If they can unlock Mobley’s offensive potential on the perimeter, he could become the perfect pick-and-roll or pick-and-pop partner for Booker.
However, this deal might not appeal to Cleveland, given Mobley’s high ceiling. While Garland is a solid player, his scoring style may not complement Booker and Beal well, and Phoenix could consider flipping him for a better fit. Ultimately, while this trade could be ideal for Phoenix, Cleveland may be reluctant to go through with it.
