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Kevin Durant Confirms He Blocked Warriors Trade at Last Season's Deadline

He cites the steep midseason cost, pointing to his eventual summer move to Houston.

Overview

  • Durant said he learned through others that Phoenix was shopping him around February and described feeling disappointed before focusing on next steps.
  • He credited longtime business partner Rich Kleiman with leading the effort to tell Golden State to hold off on a reunion.
  • ESPN reporting indicated the Warriors explored a multi-team framework with significant players and draft capital, aligning with Durant’s concern about depleted depth.
  • Golden State pivoted and acquired Jimmy Butler in a separate multi-team deal after the Durant talks faded.
  • Durant finished the season with the Suns and was dealt to the Rockets in a seven-team trade over the summer; The Athletic reports Houston and Durant are expected to agree on an extension.