The 2025 NBA offseason is already turning into one of the busiest and most unpredictable in recent years. Teams aren’t waiting for free agency to begin, but they’re jumping straight into trade talks. ESPN’s Shams Charania even called it “the most craziest ever,” pointing to how close teams are in talent and how many star players might be on the move.
Because this year’s free-agent class isn’t very strong, most teams are choosing to trade instead. Many of them believe they’re just one big move away from making a real run at a championship. That’s why trade rumors are picking up fast, and some big names could be changing teams soon.
Here’s a full look at which players are being mentioned in trade talks, what the latest reports say, and what could happen next.
- Kevin Durant will likely be traded by the Suns this summer, with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst saying he’s 98% sure it will happen.
- The Spurs want Durant and have the assets to make a strong trade offer, including draft picks and a roster built around Victor Wembanyama.
- The Cavaliers are open to trading Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen, Jrue Holiday may leave Boston, and Zion Williamson is staying in New Orleans.
Kevin Durant’s Time in Phoenix Likely Ending Soon
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reports he’s “98 percent sure” Kevin Durant will be traded this offseason. The 36-year-old still wants to chase a championship, but the Suns aren’t built to contend.
Phoenix is collaborating with Durant’s camp to find a suitable trade. The Minnesota Timberwolves are the most aggressive suitor, aiming to pair Durant with young star Anthony Edwards. Other teams in the mix include the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers.
The Suns missed the Play-In Tournament and face serious cap limitations. Durant has one year left on his deal, and if he’s not moved now, he’s likely gone in free agency. Trading him offers Phoenix a last shot to recoup assets.
Spurs Emerge as Top Suitor for Kevin Durant Ahead of 2025 Trade Deadline
The San Antonio Spurs are reportedly among the frontrunners to acquire Kevin Durant as the 2025 NBA trade deadline nears. According to insider Shams Charania, both the Spurs and Durant are receptive to a potential deal.
San Antonio is actively seeking help at small forward. With a solid backcourt anchored by Chris Paul, rookie standout Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell—all of whom logged over 47 starts last season—adding Durant would address a key need and significantly elevate the team’s offensive firepower.
Durant’s fit alongside rising star Victor Wembanyama is drawing intrigue. Wembanyama is set to return from injury for training camp, and with veteran forward Harrison Barnes also in the mix, the Spurs could field a formidable starting lineup.
From a trade standpoint, the Spurs are well-positioned. They hold a cache of valuable draft picks and possess flexible contracts, giving them the leverage to present Phoenix with a compelling package.
While Durant has not issued a formal comment on the Spurs, he recently responded to a fan on social media questioning his legacy should he join a fifth team. Durant pointed to his Finals MVP honors and elite career scoring rank—signaling full confidence in his legacy regardless of future moves.
Zion Williamson Expected to Stay in New Orleans
Despite past rumors, Zion Williamson is expected to remain with the Pelicans. On May 30, 2025, The Athletic’s Will Guillory reported that a trade is “very unlikely” this offseason. He explained that Williamson and team president Joe Dumars have met several times and that both sides are comfortable with their current situation.
Williamson has dealt with injuries throughout his career, averaging 36 games played per season over six years. He is also involved in an ongoing civil lawsuit, but no criminal charges have been filed.
The Pelicans hold the No. 7 pick in the upcoming draft and are open to offers. However, there is no indication that the team is shopping Williamson. Although Dumars told reporters that “no one is untouchable,” current reports show that Williamson is not expected to be traded this summer.
However, Williamson’s future is complicated by recent legal issues. A woman identified as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court accusing Williamson of two rapes and a pattern of abusive behavior from 2018 to June 2023. Williamson strongly denies the allegations through his legal representatives, calling the claims false and financially motivated.
Hawks Likely Keeping Trae Young Despite Earlier Speculation
There was early chatter about the Atlanta Hawks trading Trae Young, but that now seems unlikely. Jake Fischer reported on April 23 that Young is not expected to be dealt. The Hawks believe he can still lead their young core to the playoffs.
The Hawks won 40 games but missed the playoffs by one game. Young still has the option to sign a four-year, $229 million max extension this offseason. Atlanta hopes to keep him as the centerpiece while developing young players like Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels.
Even though the Hawks made several trades and dealt with injuries, particularly Jalen Johnson’s long absence, they stayed competitive. The front office believes continuity will help push them back into playoff contention.
Cavaliers May Trade Garland or Allen
The Cleveland Cavaliers won 64 games but were eliminated in the second round by the Indiana Pacers. According to Cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor, Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley are the only untouchable players. The team is open to trade offers for both Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen.
Cap space is a factor. The Cavaliers are above the second apron, which limits how they can make trades. Garland has trade value as a young playmaker. Teams like Orlando and Houston could use a guard like him. Jarrett Allen is a solid defender and rebounder, and teams such as the Lakers may revisit their interest.
Cleveland may try to move one or both players to improve wing depth or balance the roster more effectively.
Jrue Holiday Trade Rumors Swirl After Celtics’ Early Playoff Exit
Following Boston’s second-round playoff loss, Jrue Holiday may once again be on the move. According to MassLive’s Brian Robb, the Celtics are considering cost-cutting moves, and the Clippers have emerged as a strong trade candidate. The Mavericks are also reportedly interested, especially with Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL injury.
Holiday remains among the NBA’s elite perimeter defenders and brings veteran leadership. He would be a valuable asset for any contender looking to bolster its playoff push.
