As Kevin Durant trade rumors swirl once again, the Phoenix Suns appear poised to reset their roster—and the Los Angeles Clippers have quietly emerged as one of the most intriguing suitors. With Durant still performing at an elite level, L.A. sees a chance to form one of the league’s most potent trios alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. But one name could stand in the way of a blockbuster: Ivica Zubac.
While Durant reportedly favors destinations like Miami, Houston, or San Antonio, ESPN’s Shams Charania notes that the Suns are expected to prioritize the best overall return—regardless of Durant’s preferences. That gives the Clippers a real shot. Especially in light of new reports suggesting that Durant doesn’t want to play in Minnesota, and the Spurs, Rockets, and Heat are attempting to lowball the Suns. Still, negotiations may hinge on Zubac, the 7-foot center who’s quietly become one of the most consistent bigs in the NBA.
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line and Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Phoenix has strong interest in Zubac as part of any Durant trade. But the Clippers are “highly reluctant” to include him. The reasoning is hard to argue: Zubac posted career highs last season in points (16.8), rebounds (12.6), and assists (2.7), while shooting 63% from the floor and anchoring L.A.’s interior defense. He played 80 games—an ironman feat on a roster defined by injury concerns—and garnered fringe All-Defensive Team buzz.
Los Angeles Clippers Eye Kevin Durant, But Ivica Zubac May Be a Dealbreaker
L.A. could offer an alternative package: Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Derrick Jones Jr., Cam Christie, and multiple future first-round picks (including 2029 and 2031). That deal structure was first proposed by Bailey Bassett of ClutchPoints and reflects a creative way for the Clippers to stay in the hunt without surrendering Zubac. But without the big man included, it’s unclear whether Phoenix would bite. And that’s the gamble.
The Clippers’ front office has reason to be cautious. After giving up a historic haul for Paul George—including a pick that turned into MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander—they’re wary of repeating that level of risk. Zubac, now 28, is not just a role player. He’s a foundational piece who allows Leonard and Harden to operate without defensive burdens inside. With him on the floor last season, L.A. won 50 games—even with Leonard missing nearly half the year.
Durant, now 36, remains a top-tier scorer (26.6 PPG) and three-level threat. He’s already played with Harden in Oklahoma City and Brooklyn, making a reunion on paper appealing. But there’s a case to be made that Durant would be a luxury for the Clippers, not a necessity.
If Phoenix demands Zubac, the Clippers could walk away. In a conference stacked with talent, the margins matter—and L.A. may prefer to chase contention without sacrificing the defensive anchor that got them there.
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