Kevin Durant Focuses on Basketball Amid Contract Uncertainty

Speaking ahead of Monday’s deadline for a contract extension, Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant has downplayed the possibility of signing a one-year, $59.5 million extension. “I’m not even thinking about it,” Durant remarked after a practice session on Thursday, emphasizing his commitment to focusing solely on basketball and team dynamics. The seasoned player added, “I’m just going to play out my contract really, and just focus on that. Focus on the team. I haven’t even really had conversations with anybody about a contract.”

Durant’s current contract sees him earning $51.8 million for the 2024-25 season and climbing to $54.7 million in the 2025-26 season. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, there is a strong likelihood that Durant might delay extension talks until the next offseason when he would be eligible to sign a more lucrative two-year, $123.8 million extension.

Durant, a prominent figure in the NBA with an illustrious career including four Olympic gold medals, has until next Monday to decide on the one-year extension. If not signed, he becomes ineligible for a new deal during the season but would be free to negotiate again in the 2025 offseason.

Despite considerable trade speculation during this summer, the Suns organization expressed confidence in their relationship with the player. Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein stated, “The most important thing is Kevin loves being here and we love having Kevin here,” reinforcing that Durant plans to stay with the team.

The Suns are restricted in offering a long-term extension due to the “over-38 rule,” which limits contract extensions of more than one year for players who would be 38 when it begins. Suns owner Mat Ishbia and general manager James Jones affirmed their desire to continue their association with Durant, with Jones stating, “We love having KD here. We want him here. We’ll figure that out.”

The Suns, holding the NBA’s highest team payroll, will witness teammates Devin Booker and Bradley Beal handling multi-million dollar contracts. Booker’s salaries will peak at $57 million during the 2026-27 season, alongside Beal, who has a $57.1 million player option in his five-year, $251-million deal.

As Durant’s contract with the Suns progresses, fans and team officials await his decision, balancing financial considerations with his commitment to the team’s performance on the court.