Kevin Durant Explains Why He Passed on a Trade Back to the Warriors: “I Just Didn’t Want to Move”

In the wild world of the NBA, where trades can happen faster than you can say “three-pointer,” Kevin Durant‘s decision to stay with the Phoenix Suns instead of rejoining the Golden State Warriors has left fans and analysts scratching their heads. The trade rumors were hotter than a summer day in Phoenix, but when the dust settled, Durant was still wearing Suns colors. So, what gives? Let’s dive into the mind of KD and explore his humorous yet candid explanation for not wanting to return to the Warriors.

The Trade That Almost Was

Imagine this: it’s the 2025 NBA trade deadline, and the basketball universe is buzzing with excitement. Fans are glued to their screens, refreshing Twitter like it’s the last slice of pizza at a party. The rumor mill is churning out juicy tidbits about a potential blockbuster trade that would send Durant back to the Warriors, the team where he won two championships and became a household name. The proposed deal was tantalizing—Durant back in the Bay, Jimmy Butler heading to Phoenix, and the Miami Heat getting a treasure trove of assets. It was a trade that had everyone dreaming of a Warriors reunion tour.

But just when it seemed like the stars were aligning, Durant threw a wrench in the works. The next morning, news broke that he wasn’t interested in heading back to Golden State. Cue the dramatic music! The trade was dead faster than a cat meme going viral. The Warriors and Heat scrambled to pivot, leaving fans wondering what the heck just happened.

KD Speaks: “I Just Didn’t Want to Move”

In a world where speculation runs rampant, Durant finally decided to set the record straight. In an interview with ESPN, he laid it all out in a way that only KD can. “Look, I just didn’t want to be traded mid-season,” he said, with a shrug that could rival a seasoned comedian. “There’s nothing against my time with the Warriors, or the rumors that I don’t like Draymond. At the end of the day, I just wanted to see where things go with my team in Phoenix and what we can do for the rest of the season. So I’m glad I’m still here.”

Let’s break that down. Durant’s not throwing shade at the Warriors or Draymond Green; he’s simply saying he’s not in the mood for a mid-season relocation. Who can blame him? Moving is a hassle! Packing up your life, saying goodbye to your favorite pizza joint, and figuring out where to find the best coffee in a new city? No, thank you!

Kerr’s Take: No Hard Feelings

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who has seen it all during his time with Durant, chimed in with his thoughts. At the All-Star Festival, he expressed understanding for Durant’s reluctance to revisit the past. “I don’t blame Kevin at all for not wanting to go through that again,” Kerr said, shaking his head as if he were reminiscing about a bad haircut. “He’s been through so much crap, like, ‘Oh, you jumped on the bandwagon’ when he signed with us as a free agent in 2016. And then he went on to be Finals MVP two years in a row. It’s like he’s still getting criticized for it.”

Kerr’s comments highlight the absurdity of the narrative surrounding Durant. Here’s a guy who has proven himself time and again, yet the specter of criticism looms large. So why would he want to dive back into that cauldron of negativity? It’s like voluntarily stepping back into a lion’s den after you’ve already escaped!

The Suns: A Work in Progress

As it stands, Durant remains with the Suns, who currently hold a record of 26-28 and sit at 11th place in the Western Conference. They’re just a game and a half behind the 10th-seeded Warriors, which means the playoff race is tighter than a pair of skinny jeans after Thanksgiving dinner. The Suns are in a precarious position, teetering on the edge of playoff contention, and Durant’s presence is crucial. At 36 years old, he’s still one of the most efficient scorers in the league, but the chemistry with his new teammates—Devin Booker and Bradley Beal—has yet to fully materialize.

The Suns’ struggles have led to questions about whether Durant made the right choice. Was it worth it to stay put in Phoenix, where the team is still trying to find its footing, rather than rejoining a proven championship contender? The debate rages on, with fans and analysts dissecting every aspect of the situation like it’s a high-stakes game of chess.

The Toxicity of NBA Fandom

Let’s not kid ourselves; the NBA fandom can be a toxic place. Social media is rife with keyboard warriors ready to pounce on any misstep, and Durant has been a frequent target. The narrative surrounding him has often been less about his incredible talent and more about his decisions and perceived “betrayals.” It’s a circus, and Durant has been the main attraction for far too long.

In a world where players are often vilified for their choices, Durant’s decision to stay in Phoenix is a bold statement. It’s a declaration that he’s not going to let the noise dictate his career. He’s choosing to focus on what he can control—his performance and his team’s success. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to avoid the drama of a Warriors reunion?

The Future: What Lies Ahead?

So, what’s next for Durant and the Suns? Will they find their groove and make a playoff push? Or will they fizzle out like a soda left open overnight? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: Durant’s decision to stay in Phoenix has added another layer of intrigue to an already unpredictable season.

As fans, we can only sit back, grab our popcorn, and watch the drama unfold. Whether you’re a die-hard Suns fan or a Warriors loyalist, one thing is clear: Kevin Durant is here to stay, and he’s ready to make his mark in Phoenix. So, let’s raise a glass (or a Gatorade) to KD, the man who chose to stay put and embrace the chaos of the NBA. Cheers! Kevin Durant: Why I Passed on a Warriors Reunion