The Golden State Warriors surprised everyone with their performance by leading the Western Conference. With a 10-3 record, there are no signs of slowing down, even with Klay Thompson shipped to the Dallas Mavericks. However, they need a star player, and their pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo remains in the balance. Earlier, the Houston Rockets wanted to trade in Kevin Durant by devising a strategy to bring the wingman to the franchise. Yet, reports came in regarding Durant, who is about to sign an extension with the Phoenix Suns.
After figuring out how to pull out of the trade, the Rockets wanted to bring Durant and Giannis to the franchise. But the Suns man has unfinished business with the Phoenix franchise. According to owner Mat Ishbia, they made a blockbuster trade for Durant to help them win championships. Despite a few setbacks, Ishbia mentioned how Durant would sign a contract extension, as per ESPN.
This will give the Warriors a new lease of life, who can quickly plan out the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade with the Rockets, requiring them to figure out another plan. Ishbia mentioned, “[Durant] loves being in Phoenix, we love having him. He’s off to an amazing start this season — one of the MVP leaders — and we’re off to a very good start.” If you look at KD’s stats, he has averaged 27.6 points, which is a career-best in Phoenix. Moreover, the player has become a block master in recent times, with Durant swatting away shots.
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“We expect Kevin to sign an extension, be with us for the long term. We hope he finishes his career here in Phoenix,” mentioned Ishbia. It’s an ambitious statement for the owner. Instead of signing a one-year deal worth $60 million, Durant and the Suns chose to wait until next summer to explore a two-year, $120 million extension. It would work well for the franchise, as they are also considering renovations. For now, it all looks good.
But the Warriors would love this. They can now devise a plan to bring in Giannis. They should act fast, though.
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Golden State Warriors can bring in Giannis Antetokounmpo
If the Warriors want Giannis, they must give out some players like Andrew Wiggins, Brandin Podziemski, and probably Jonathan Kuminga on the hypothetical list. Along with the players, they must give out some draft picks to complete the deal. If Giannis comes in, the Warriors will have a makeover.
They will have Stephen Curry, who can shoot from the perimeter at ease, and now play pick-and-rolls with two players: Giannis and Draymond Green. The Greek Freak can be a telling presence inside by grabbing rebounds and working out players in the post.
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Losing Podziemki could be hard, but Giannis can promise a title to the franchise if fit. It’s a tricky position for the Warriors, but they will be delighted with Durant signing a contract that will have a butterfly effect on the Giannis trade.
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With Durant staying in Phoenix, is Giannis the missing piece for the Warriors' championship puzzle?
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With Durant staying in Phoenix, is Giannis the missing piece for the Warriors' championship puzzle?
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