Reports suggest that the Los Angeles Lakers are among several teams planning to pursue a trade for Kevin Durant this offseason.
According to Hoops Wire, the Lakers are expected to compete with the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets, and Miami Heat for Durant’s services.
Before the February 6 trade deadline, the Heat, Timberwolves, and Golden State Warriors had shown interest in acquiring Durant. However, negotiations stalled after Durant made it clear he had no plans to leave the Phoenix Suns at that time.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has hinted that a trade could be inevitable this summer, stating, “They’re gonna trade [KD], and he knows that.”
Durant’s Contract & Performance
At 36 years old, Durant is set to earn $54.7 million next season, the final year of his contract. So far this season, he is averaging 26.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 49 games.
Despite boasting a trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, the Suns have struggled, currently sitting 11th in the Western Conference with a 29-33 record.
Meanwhile, the Lakers hold the No. 2 seed with a 39-21 record. However, trading for Durant would be a significant challenge, requiring the Lakers’ front office to get creative.
Potential Trade Package
With no available cap space this summer, the Lakers would need to assemble a trade package to land Durant. One possible offer could include:
Austin Reaves
Dalton Knecht
Cam Reddish
2031 first-round pick
2030 first-round pick swap
Even with this package, it remains uncertain whether it would be enough to convince the Suns to part ways with Durant.
LeBron & Durant’s History
LeBron and Durant most recently played together when they helped Team USA secure the gold medal at the Paris Olympics last summer.
