The Toronto Raptors took a strong position in ongoing trade talks for Kevin Durant. With the Phoenix Suns eager to make a deal ahead of the NBA draft, the Raptors made it clear that the center Jakob Poeltl is off limits. His defensive presence and value to the team’s future make him untouchable.
The Suns expressed interest in Poeltl earlier in the process, but Toronto refused to engage. At $19.5 million per year, Poeltl’s salary would have helped balance a deal for Durant, who is ready to make $54.7 million next season. Still, the raptors won’t budge, keeping him out of the conversation entirely.
According to Sportsnet’s Michael Grange, the Raptors are unwilling to include Poeltl in any Durant trade. Without him, Toronto’s offer would need to revolve around RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and the No.9 overall pick. That structure would likely require a third team to satisfy the league’s salary-matching rules.
The Raptors are refusing to include Jakob Poeltl in a Kevin Durant trade, per @michaelgrange (https://t.co/1Z79at9cvU).
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 20, 2025
Without Poeltl, Toronto’s offer would need to be built around Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett and the No. 9 overall pick in a multi-team framework. pic.twitter.com/lislijY9fN
While the Raptors remain interested in Durant, they are committed to keeping their core intact. Poeltl’s keeping off the table forces Toronto to think outside the box and stay in contention for Durant without giving up key defensive talent.
Kevin Durant’s Favorite Destination In The Trade Talks
With Multiple destinations around, Kevin Durant’s trade situation continues to heat up. The Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs are reportedly on his preferred destination list. The Suns are weighing offers carefully as Durant enters the final year of his contract, and any potential trade partner wants assurance for a long-term commitment.
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Though the Spurs were initially a front-runner, NBA insider Jake Fischer suggested Houston might now be Durant’s top choice. With the No. 10 pick in the upcoming draft and a stockpile of assets, the Rockets are in a position to make a deal but are hesitant to overpay for the 36-year-old star.
Durant’s ties with Rockets coach Ima Udoka and assistant Royal Ivey could sway negotiations. Houston hopes his influence and leverage can shape terms in their favor. With the draft looming, a deal could come together quickly if both sides find common ground.
Also Read: REPORT: Surprising New Team Willing To “Gamble” On Kevin Durant As Trade Rumors Heat Up
