Suns Owner Ishbia Optimistic on Durant's Future Amid Team Restructuring and Challenges
November 20, 2024Last 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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Sources
ESPN • Nov 20, 2024
Mat Ishbia expects Suns will sign Kevin Durant to extension - ESPNBleacher Report • Nov 20, 2024
Suns' Mat Ishbia Expects Kevin Durant to Sign Contract Extension After 2024-25 SeasonHoopsHype • Nov 20, 2024
Suns owner expects Kevin Durant to sign extension next offseason