In a dramatic trade deadline, the Golden State Warriors pursued Kevin Durant, but he remained cold to the idea of returning. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves made a late effort to acquire the star, but their offer fell short as it did not include rising star Anthony Edwards. The Phoenix Suns, initially looking to trade Durant or acquire another star, ended up making only a minor deal, sending Jusuf Nurkic to Charlotte. This lack of activity left both the Suns and Timberwolves hoping to regroup in the second half of the season.