Mat Ishbia drops hint on Kevin Durant's extension with the Suns: "We plan on Kevin being here"

Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns expect great things during the upcoming season. The All-Star forward is in the third year of his four-year, $194 million deal, making him eligible for a contract extension.

Durant could secure a two-year, $105 million deal with the team. Owner Mat Ishbia has hinted the franchise wants him to stay.

During Phoenix's media availability, Ishbia addressed KD's future. He said the organization and the two-time champion have discussed an extension.

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"We love Kevin. I think he came up this summer talking about all these things -- everyone talks about Kevin, he loves it here, we love him, we talk to him and his agent Rich Kleiman all the time. But we don't really go through contract extensions publicly. But I'll tell you this, Kevin loves it, we love him, we plan on him being here. Nothing's changing with that."

There are two years left on Durant's deal. This season, he's set to earn $51.1 million. The next season, the star will earn $54 million.

He's eligible to sign a one-year extension with the team that could be worth $59 million. However, it can't be signed until Oct. 21. The organization can offer a new multi-year deal next summer.

When Durant's new contract kicks in, he'll be 38. When asked about the extension, KD said he's focused on helping the team this season and will deal with the contract when the time comes.

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"As far as the extension, two years out, I got two years left on my contract. I'm focused on being the best I can every day. We'll figure out that stuff when it's time."

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New Suns coach focused on keeping Kevin Durant and other stars healthy

Last season, Phoenix struggled with consistency as many of its players battled injuries. This season, new coach Mike Budenholzer anticipates guiding a healthy roster.

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"Certainly health is a key to any team’s success. The more good health we have with KD, Book and Brad, logically, we would be better. Keeping them together on the court for a significant portion of the season, their natural abilities will affect winning and be a real positive for us."

In 2023, Durant was the healthiest of Phoenix's three stars. He only missed seven games and contributed significantly to the team. The 2014 MVP averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds and 5.0 assists.

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