Why do the Suns do this? The Suns are clearly wanting to end the Durant experiment. No one is offering a better player than Lauri for a 1 year deal with a 36 year old Durant. No one. The wolves MAY offer Randle but thats a huge downgrade. The Suns save GOBS of cash because Lauri is almost $10 million cheaper than KD. They come away with 1 x first in 2025, improve their balance, and they get a few seconds.

Why do the 76ers do this? The draft isnt their cup of tea. Morey wants to compete now. Paul George was NOT a good fit. He is a wash. He has one of the leagues worst contracts. Kevin Durant is a win now option and if it works they can lock KD in for 2 more years. The East is Wide Open and KD + Embid is a unique high level mix.

Why do the Jazz do this? Lauri and the Jazz are not on the same timeline. The Jazz absorb Paul Georges contract. They can snag Ace Bailey or VJ Edjcomb and use PG as a mentor. The Jazz get two bites at the top of the draft for losing their best player and absorbing an albatross contract. The Jazz want quality over quantity on picks so the other two unprotected for Lauri gives them upside.

I think this makes good sense for all 3.