Nets superstar Kevin Durant is committed to Brooklyn as of right now, but with recent comments that Durant made to Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes along with having requested a trade this past offseason, it’s possible that Durant could request another trade if this season starts going south.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has reported that execs around the league are talking about the Nets’ “nuclear” option – deciding to embrace a rebuild if it becomes clear that their current roster cannot compete for a championship.
Even though nothing concrete has been reported as far as Durant being traded is concerned, it’s interesting to see what others envision as possible trades. Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus gives his idea on what would be required for Durant to be traded to the Grizzlies:
“The Memphis Grizzlies are one of the league’s most exciting teams, led by All-Star Ja Morant. Would the team change course and give up some of its young core for an established superstar wing like Durant?
Desmond Bane has easily outperformed his draft position (No. 30 in 2020). Danny Green’s $10 million can be fully guaranteed and included (despite a serious knee injury) along with Dillon Brooks and prospects (Ziaire Williams, Jake LaRavia, Santi Aldama, David Roddy, etc.).
Or would a more straightforward deal built around Jaren Jackson Jr. ($28.9 million for 2022-23) and pieces make more sense for both teams? The Grizzlies also have all of their own first-round picks, plus a 2024 selection from the Golden State Warriors.
It’s unclear if the Grizzlies would go after Durant, but if motivated, they have enough to make the Nets pay attention.”
Durant to the Grizzlies is an interesting possibility that would change the directions of both franchises in a significant way.