Suns Owner Ishbia Optimistic on Durant's Future Amid Team Restructuring and Challenges

November 20, 2024
Suns Owner Ishbia Optimistic on Durant's Future Amid Team Restructuring and Challenges
  • Last season, the Suns faced challenges with injuries to Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, resulting in a disappointing 49-33 record and a first-round playoff exit.

  • Mat Ishbia, owner of the Phoenix Suns, is optimistic that Kevin Durant will sign a contract extension next offseason, with hopes that he will retire as a Sun.

  • Currently, Durant is under contract with the Suns until the end of the 2025-26 season and has had a strong start to the 2024-25 season, averaging 27.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.

  • Both Durant and the Suns are eyeing a potential two-year, $120 million maximum extension next summer, reflecting Durant's desire to remain with the franchise.

  • Due to NBA rules, discussions regarding this extension will take place after the current season, as a two-year extension could not be signed last summer.

  • Ishbia has noted that Durant is considered one of the MVP leaders this season, and both parties are eager to continue their relationship.

  • However, Durant has been sidelined since November 8 with a left calf strain, contributing to the Suns' struggles, as they have posted a 1-5 record in his absence.

  • Despite these challenges, the Suns are managing their roster and aiming for a successful season, with rookies Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro stepping up as starters.

  • Ishbia has aggressively restructured the Suns' roster, acquiring Bradley Beal and trading Deandre Ayton for Jusuf Nurkic, while also hiring two-time Coach of the Year Mike Budenholzer.

  • Since purchasing the Suns for $4 billion in February 2023, Ishbia has made significant moves, including the trade for Durant to pair him with Devin Booker.

  • The financial implications of a future extension for Durant are a consideration for the Suns, as they aim to keep him alongside Booker for as long as he remains productive.

  • Off the court, Ishbia has invested in renovations to the Suns' facilities and announced a $20 million investment in a new club, 'The Ra Ra Room,' at the Suns arena.

Summary based on 3 sources


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