It was during the summer of 2016 that Kevin Durant took an unusual way to big announcement. An article titled ‘My Next Chapter’ dropped on July 7th where the superstar officially announced his ties with the Warriors. 9 years later, we might expect a similar announcement from the Slim Reaper, at the cost of a Dubs’ rising star. No, I am not kidding. In fact, with Luka Doncic’s shocking move to the Lakers, anything is possible. Moreover, the latest updates hint that the Dubs’ were more desperate than ever before.
Following the Luka-AD trade, NBA Insiders dropped plenty of updates on Dubs’ trade deadline moves. Yesterday, Bret Siegel reported that the Warriors contacted plenty of franchises in the last 72 hours with the hope of roping in a big star. Notably, the team even contacted the Phoenix Suns with an ambition to bring back KD into the side which the Valley side declined.
With no other option, the Dubs approached Jimmy Butler, which also ended as the Heat star communicated that he wasn’t interested in a long-term extension. So, with less than three days away from the deadline, the Dubs may have one more shot at Kevin Durant. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated stated that the Suns are “strongly” considering the KD trade, as Jimmy Buckets’ possible trade has come to a halt.
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The Warriors are indeed serious about reuniting with Kevin Durant, sources told SI. And with efforts to acquire Jimmy Butler stalled rival execs believe the Suns are strongly considering Durant deals before the deadline.
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) February 4, 2025
Now that we have a hunch that the Warriors have another shot at Durant, what’s the closest possible way that Dubs can use to reach their desired wonderland? I think there’s a way and the answer to the problem is Jonathan Kuminga. Yes, we’ve heard Curry say that doesn’t want the team to ‘mortgage’ the future in desperation. But let’s see how the trade will work.
How will a 3-team deal bring Kevin Durant to the Warriors?
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So, looking at the latest reports on the Suns’ trade movements, looks like they’re interested in bringing Jimmy Butler in. The team’s attempt to rope in Butler through Bradley Beal flopped because of the trade clause. Now, there’s a way where everyone will be satisfied.
Jonathan Kuminga will be the trump card in this deal. Currently, the Congolese forward has an expiring contract, as the Warriors didn’t extend JK’s rookie contract worth $24.8 million. And he will enter free agency this summer if not re-signed. So, the Dubs could entice the Heat to give Butler away for Kuminga. Notably, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that the Heat have lowered their price for Butler as they move inches closer to the deadline.
Suppose the Heat agree to the deal, the Suns come into the picture. Now, Butler, instead of heading to the Bay Area, the Warriors would replace him with Kevin Durant. Moreover, there’s another possible scenario as well where the Dubs and Suns could directly exchange JK for KD.
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Renowned reporter Jake Fischer reported that the Suns have a “level of interest” on Kuminga. However, this could not entirely materialize, considering the number of assets that the Dubs have to give up along with JK. What do you think of the trade? Let us know in the comments.
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Is the Warriors' pursuit of Durant a sign of desperation or a strategic masterstroke?
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Is the Warriors' pursuit of Durant a sign of desperation or a strategic masterstroke?
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