The Toronto Raptors remain a factor in Kevin Durant trade talks while continuing draft workouts and exploring options with the No. 9 pick (Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/Getty Images)
Kevin Durant is expected to be traded before the 2025 NBA Draft, and league sources tell RG the Toronto Raptors are among the teams seriously evaluating a deal, despite not being on Durant’s preferred destination list. It’s a familiar dynamic for Toronto, which took a similar approach in 2018 by acquiring Kawhi Leonard and capitalizing on a one-year window to win an NBA championship.
League sources say the Raptors have explored a range of trade concepts that could involve a framework including any combination of RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl and the No. 9 overall pick. While nothing appears imminent, there is internal openness to parting with one of Barrett or Quickley in a larger package, and Poeltl could be included depending on the structure. Additionally, Toronto has explored scenarios involving trading down from No. 9, rather than exiting the first round altogether. A clear motivation to make changes is evident.
Durant is under contract through the 2025-26 season and becomes extension-eligible on July 6. The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are viewed as the teams he’d be inclined to sign a contract extension with once eligible to do so. By contrast, Toronto, the LA Clippers and the Minnesota Timberwolves are among the teams not currently expected to receive a long-term commitment from Durant.
Raptors Evaluating the Risk
While San Antonio and Houston have long been viewed as top suitors for Durant, league sources tell RG that neither team has presented its strongest possible offer. This has created a fluid situation with just over a week remaining until the start of the NBA Draft.
Houston’s front office exercised caution when considering a trade for Durant before the midseason deadline. That conservative approach has continued, even after the team’s offensive struggles in the first round against Golden State. The Spurs have remained practical as well, with a focus on aligning any major moves with Victor Wembanyama’s timeline. There is internal recognition of the potential value in having Durant not only as a running mate but also as a veteran presence Wembanyama could learn from — but only at the right cost.
Phoenix has remained patient throughout the process, understanding its options to reconfigure the roster around Devin Booker are limited outside of a Durant trade. Some around the league view the Suns’ approach as a way to draw more wild-card suitors into the mix — a tactic aimed at increasing pressure on Durant’s preferred destinations.
Meanwhile, Toronto is operating from a position of flexibility. The front office sees an opportunity to build around a returning core of Scottie Barnes, Gradey Dick and potentially Brandon Ingram, who has yet to debut after a deadline trade. Quickley was limited to 33 games, and Barnes missed time in the fall, leaving Toronto’s 30-52 record as something some view as a misleading benchmark.
Adding Durant would change expectations overnight, especially in a wide-open Eastern Conference. The Raptors would then be able to operate with an All-NBA-caliber talent at the helm while also making strategic moves to bolster their supporting cast.
Draft Process Continues Alongside Trade Scenarios
While monitoring Durant discussions, the Raptors have continued to bring in top talent ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. League sources tell RG that Nolan Traore, a projected first-round guard, completed a workout with the Raptors on Monday. The team has also evaluated Tre Johnson, Derik Queen, Jase Richardson and Collin Murray-Boyles, among other projected first-round prospects, as part of its broader pre-draft process.
League sources tell RG that various members of Toronto’s front office are believed to be high on Khaman Maluach, one of the youngest and most intriguing bigs in the class. However, it remains to be seen if he’ll be available when the No. 9 pick is on the clock.
The team’s willingness to move the No. 9 pick in a trade doesn’t preclude it from evaluating its full value on the board. Whether Toronto keeps the pick, trades down or includes it in a blockbuster deal, it is staying ready across all scenarios as the June 25 draft approaches.
Grant Afseth is a Dallas-based basketball writer with over eight years of experience covering the NBA. He’s spent time on the Mavericks beat for Sports Illustrated and now writes for Sportskeeda.com and DallasHoopsJournal.com. Known for his analysis, engaging interviews, and breaking news coverage, Grant provides a fresh angle to the game.
