After falling short in the playoffs and watching other Western Conference contenders pull ahead, the Golden State Warriors are gearing up for a bold offseason. According to NBA insiders, the franchise is exploring all options to strengthen its core around Stephen Curry, and one name keeps coming up: Kevin Durant.
Though a midseason reunion with Durant didn’t materialize, reports suggest the Warriors may take another shot this summer. ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed that the Phoenix Suns are now open to working with Durant and his representatives to explore potential trades, a key difference from the failed deadline negotiations, where Durant was reportedly unaware he was being shopped.
Durant may be more open to returning to Golden State
At 35 years old and with an expiring contract, Durant has more control than ever over his future. Any team trading for him will likely need assurance that he’ll sign an extension, potentially worth $122 million over two years. The Warriors may be one of the few teams that can both absorb that deal and offer Durant a legitimate shot at another championship.
Sources suggest that Durant hasn’t closed the door on a reunion. On The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, Durant hinted that a return could happen “if that’s the decision you want to make in the offseason.” He emphasized the weight of midseason trades and the impact they can have on a team’s chemistry, one reason he reportedly shut down a deal to Golden State at the deadline.
Golden State has the assets to make it happen
The Warriors have up to four first-round picks available after the NBA draft, along with valuable young players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski. A sign-and-trade involving Kuminga could be the centerpiece of a deal with Phoenix. Golden State also held off on trading for another star during the deadline, instead acquiring Jimmy Butler, a move that keeps their trade options open for this summer.
With Steve Kerr and the front office focused on adding a playmaking wing or a center, Durant’s versatility and championship pedigree might be the exact fit. If the Suns are willing to negotiate, and Durant is truly open to the idea, the Bay could be calling once again.
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