What’s the Buzz?
The Phoenix Suns are actively shopping Kevin Durant this offseason. Though Durant reportedly favors a move to Miami, Houston, or San Antonio, the LA Clippers have emerged as a dark horse suitor. However, their unwillingness to include center Ivica Zubac may limit trade negotiations.
Clippers’ Trade Package — With Limits
According to Jake Fischer (The Stein Line), the Clippers are adamant about keeping Ivica Zubac, a player the Suns highly value:
“We’ve been consistently told LA has no desire to part with Ivica Zubac…”
Possible Offer Without Zubac:
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Norman Powell
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Bogdan Bogdanovic
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Derrick Jones Jr.
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Two future first-round picks
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Swap rights
While still a solid offer, excluding Zubac weakens LA’s negotiating position for a player of Durant’s caliber.
Why Zubac Is So Valuable to LA
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Improved on both ends: From a role player to a two-way interior presence
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Rebounding and defense: Key anchor on the glass and rim protector
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Offensive reliability: Touch around the rim, solid in pick-and-rolls
The Clippers see him as a cornerstone of their current core, especially with their 2025 playoff performance showing promise despite an early exit.
Will the Durant Deal Happen?
Without Zubac in the mix, a trade may stall — but LA still believes its current squad (with strategic additions) can compete in the West. That said, Durant remains a tantalizing target.
