New York Knicks Inches Away from Signing Kevin Durant in Blockbuster Trade Despite Miami Heat Interest
By [Barry], Sports Correspondent
June 2, 2025
In a stunning turn of events that could shift the balance of power in the Eastern Conference, league sources report that the New York Knicks are just inches away from finalizing a blockbuster trade that would bring future Hall-of-Famer Kevin Durant to Madison Square Garden. Despite serious interest from the Miami Heat, the Knicks have emerged as the frontrunners to land the two-time NBA champion and 2014 MVP.
According to multiple insiders familiar with the negotiations, the deal has reached an “advanced stage,” with only minor details left to iron out. The Knicks and Durant’s current team — the Phoenix Suns — have reportedly agreed on the core pieces of the trade, which includes multiple first-round picks, veteran guard Evan Fournier, and rising star Quentin Grimes. Talks accelerated over the weekend, and both sides are confident a deal could be finalized within the next 48 to 72 hours.
A Long-Awaited Superstar for New York
For the Knicks, this marks the culmination of a years-long pursuit of a bona fide superstar. Since their last championship in 1973, the franchise has often found itself on the periphery of contention, despite a loyal fanbase and one of the league’s most iconic arenas. The potential acquisition of Durant — even at age 36 — signals that the Knicks are finally ready to go all-in.
“Durant is exactly the kind of player who can elevate a very good team into a championship contender,” said ESPN analyst and former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy. “He still has the skill set, the mentality, and the experience to dominate in big moments.”
Durant averaged 26.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists during the 2024–25 season with the Suns, who fell short of expectations in the Western Conference semifinals. Though the superstar forward has battled injuries in recent years, he remains one of the most efficient and dangerous scorers in the league.
The Knicks’ Roster Outlook
Pairing Durant with All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson and forward Julius Randle would instantly form one of the most formidable trios in the Eastern Conference. Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks have built a culture of toughness and defense — but often lacked the offensive firepower to close games against elite opponents. Durant’s arrival could change that equation overnight.
Team president Leon Rose has long targeted Durant, dating back to the 2019 free agency period when Durant chose the Brooklyn Nets instead of the Knicks. Now, nearly six years later, New York may finally get their man.
The Knicks are expected to send at least two unprotected first-round picks (2026 and 2028), a 2025 pick swap, and several second-rounders to Phoenix. The deal is also expected to include young talent, with Quentin Grimes and possibly Miles McBride as key components.
Miami Heat’s Last-Minute Push Falls Short
Meanwhile, the Miami Heat made a strong push to land Durant, offering a package centered around Tyler Herro, future picks, and role players like Caleb Martin. However, sources suggest Phoenix was more intrigued by New York’s draft capital and younger prospects. Additionally, Durant is believed to be more enthusiastic about joining a Knicks squad that finished strong last season and has the depth to compete immediately.
“Miami’s offer was solid, but New York’s was just better — both in terms of assets and Durant’s preference,” said NBA insider Shams Charania.
Heat president Pat Riley reportedly made a direct call to Phoenix GM James Jones in an effort to sway the decision, but the Suns remained committed to maximizing value — and keeping Durant out of their own conference if possible.
What This Means for the East
Assuming the trade goes through, the Knicks will instantly vault into the top tier of contenders in the East, alongside the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and the reigning champion Philadelphia 76ers. Durant’s championship pedigree and late-game scoring prowess make him the perfect complement to the Knicks’ existing core.
In contrast, the Suns appear to be entering a new phase, potentially building around Devin Booker while shedding long-term salary commitments and refocusing on youth and flexibility. Bradley Beal, who remains under contract, may also be on the move as the team retools.
Fan Reaction and Media Buzz
As news of the impending trade broke, Knicks fans took to social media in jubilation, with “KD to MSG” trending nationally within hours. Sports talk shows, podcasts, and ESPN panels were abuzz with speculation about the Knicks’ chances in the 2025–26 season.
“Durant in a Knicks uniform is a dream come true for a lot of fans,” said Stephen A. Smith on First Take. “He was the one who got away in 2019. If this deal goes through, the Knicks are no joke anymore.”
While the trade is not yet official, all signs point toward an imminent agreement that will send shockwaves throughout the NBA landscape. Barring any last-minute snags, Kevin Durant is poised to make his long-awaited debut at Madison Square Garden — not as a visiting superstar, but as the centerpiece of a title-hungry franchise.
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