Should the Grizzlies pursue Kevin Durant this summer?
A pairing of Ja Morant and Kevin Durant would be a thrilling sight, as the kids like to say.
Remember when the Grizzlies reportedly showed interest in Kevin Durant at the trade deadline, and ESPN’s Bob Meyers hinted that Durant turned down a trade to Memphis? He remained with the Phoenix Suns for the rest of the season after reportedly rejecting trade offers from teams such as the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets.
Although Kevin Durant doesn’t have a no-trade clause, meaning he doesn’t have full control over where he’s traded, his $54.7 million expiring contract next season would make teams hesitate unless either side is looking for a short-term deal.
Despite the Suns missing the playoffs this season, Durant still averaged 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting from the field and 43% from beyond the arc at age 36. He continues to score efficiently and rebound well, with an average of six rebounds per game. So, should the Grizzlies consider making another move for the two-time champion?
The Grizzlies should definitely consider reaching out about Durant again
The odds of the Grizzlies landing a player of Kevin Durant’s caliber without a trade are slim. Memphis’ plans changed quickly this season, as they had originally been preparing a trade centered around former guard Marcus Smart to try and bring in the future Hall of Famer.
Rather than adding Durant to a roster featuring Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies would now need to trade one of their core three players to make room for him. Bane, with a $36.7 million contract for the upcoming season, is the most likely candidate to be traded, as he is the third player in their “big 3.”
Exchanging Bane for Durant would give the Grizzlies a legitimate big 3 with three All-Star caliber players, including one who can score efficiently at all levels of the game. However, the Grizzlies would face challenges in putting together a trade package that is enticing enough. Likely, they would need a third team to facilitate the deal, as Phoenix already has two shooting guards. Additionally, Durant’s willingness to finish his career in Memphis would be crucial.
Although Durant doesn’t have a no-trade clause, he would still have a say in where he plays next. The Grizzlies would also need to decide how many of their draft picks and young players they are willing to trade to acquire the 15-time All-Star. If Memphis is serious about becoming a championship contender and Durant wants another shot at winning a title before retiring, the two sides could be a perfect fit.
