The Suns (25-23) sit in eighth in the Western Conference, just one game ahead of the Warriors (24-24). As the likelihood of Butler joining the Suns seemingly continues to dwindle, it could potentially open up a path for Durant to make a stunning return to the Warriors.

The Suns have debunked, but have been rumored to possibly trade Kevin Durant ahead of the NBA trade deadline on Thursday.

Bradley Beal's no-trade clause continues serving as a significant obstacle in Phoenix's pursuit of Butler because, as Gambadoro noted, the Suns are trying to deal the three-time All-Star. In the third season of his five-year, $251 million contract, Beal reportedly has no plans to waive his no-trade clause.