Unexpected Contender Emerges as ‘Dark Horse’ in Kevin Durant Sweepstakes originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the NBA offseason heats up right before the summer, the Toronto Raptors have emerged as an unexpected dark horse in the Kevin Durant trade sweepstakes.
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According to a report shared by NBA insider Evan Sidery, citing ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Raptors are open to including their No. 9 overall pick in a potential deal for the Phoenix Suns’ superstar, a move that has caught the league by surprise.
With the Suns unimpressed by most offers, the Raptors’ bold proposal could position them as a serious contender in what has become a more competitive Eastern Conference.
Durant, a 15-time All-Star and two-time champion, remains a coveted asset despite Phoenix’s lackluster 36-46 season that saw the Suns fail to make the NBA Playoffs.
Phoenix Suns star Kevin DurantJesse Johnson-Imagn Images
The Raptors’ willingness to dangle a top-10 pick, potentially paired with players like RJ Barrett or Jakob Poeltl, signals their intent to bolster their roster around Scottie Barnes.
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This unexpected pivot from the Raptors, often seen as a rebuilding team, suggests a strategic gamble to leap into contention.
Fan reactions on X are mixed, with some Raptors supporters excited about Durant’s potential impact, while others question the cost of surrendering such a valuable asset in the No. 9 pick.
The Suns’ openness to work with Durant on his next destination adds intrigue, as Phoenix seeks a haul that justifies trading their franchise cornerstone.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Raptors’ emergence could force other suitors to raise their bids. For now, the Raptors’ dark horse bid has injected fresh drama into the Durant saga.
Related: Kevin Durant Sweepstakes Gets Major Update
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.