Kevin Durant had a poor season with the Phoenix Suns this season, as they were swept in the first round of the playoffs after being eliminated in the second round the previous year. Durant has only made it to the second round of the playoffs since leaving the Golden State Warriors, and many fans remember him earning back-to-back Finals MVP awards.
Meanwhile, the Warriors missed the playoffs this season and are at risk of failing to maintain their dynasty despite Stephen Curry’s superstar presence, which averaged 26.4 points per game. We addressed the key reasons why Kevin Durant is destined to retire with the Warriors a few months ago, and that reunion may be on the horizon.
Durant may return to the team that he helped win two NBA championships and save the dynasty through three distinct trade possibilities this summer.
Trade Scenario No. 1: Details
Golden State Warriors Receive Kevin Durant.
The Phoenix Suns receive Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, a 2029 first-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick (MIL).
In Trade Scenario 1, the Warriors acquire Kevin Durant by delivering a large package to the Suns. Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody offer the Suns a combination of experienced leadership, defensive skill, and young talent. Wiggins delivers both scoring and defense, Green provides unrivaled defensive versatility and playmaking, while Podziemski and Moody are intriguing young players with big futures. The Suns benefit from the addition of future draft picks, which ensures they have assets to build upon in the future.
For the Warriors, reconnecting with Durant (27.1 PPG) may be a game changer. Durant’s scoring skills, paired with the existing firepower of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson (17.9 PPG on 38.7% 3-point FG this season), who will re-sign, would transform Golden State into an offensive powerhouse. The absences of Green and Wiggins would be felt defensively, but Durant’s presence would cause mismatches for any opposition team. This decision also demonstrates the Warriors’ desire to maximize their championship window with Curry and Thompson (who are eager to re-sign a long-term contract at a bargain).
This transaction might help the Warriors win another NBA title, cementing their dynasty and potentially allowing Durant to retire as a Warriors player. The combination of offensive firepower and championship history would make them a league favorite, reigniting their pursuit for another title.
Trade Scenario No. 2: Details
Golden State Warriors Receive Kevin Durant.
Phoenix Suns receive: Klay Thompson (sign and trade), Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and a 2029 first-round pick.
In this sign-and-trade, the Suns acquire Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and a 2029 first-round selection. Thompson brings championship experience and exceptional shooting to Phoenix, complementing Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Wiggins (13.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG) and Kuminga (career-high 16.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG) provide depth and agility, while Podziemski (9.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG) has future potential. This move keeps the Suns competitive in terms of depth, as Booker returns as the number one option.
For the Warriors, getting Durant in exchange for Thompson and Wiggins would be a wise move to improve their scoring and versatility. Durant’s ability to play several positions and generate his own shot would compliment Curry and the rest of the team well. Losing Thompson and Wiggins would have an impact on their perimeter defense, but Durant’s offensive impact would likely compensate, and players like Moses Moody (8.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG in 2023-24) would play a larger part on the squad, albeit the club’s depth would suffer.
This transaction would result in a reinvigorated Warriors team with a strong chance of winning another NBA championship. The reunion with Durant would rekindle memories of their earlier domination, potentially leading to another championship run and cementing their position as one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history.
Trade Scenario No. 3: Details
Golden State Warriors Receive Kevin Durant.
Phoenix Suns acquire Klay Thompson (sign and trade), Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Trayce Jackson-Davis.
In Trade Scenario No. 3, the Suns sign Klay Thompson and trade him for Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Thompson’s shooting ability and Green’s defensive leadership would immediately improve Phoenix’s roster. Kuminga and Moody have young talent, while Jackson-Davis gives depth to their frontcourt. This move provides the Suns with a combination of experience and future assets, allowing them to remain competitive both now and later.
For the Warriors, reconnecting with Durant by trading Thompson, Green, and a trio of young players represents a risky gamble to stay at the top. Durant’s scoring prowess and versatility to play several positions would boost the Warriors’ offense, forming a dynamic three alongside Curry and Thompson. Despite Green’s defensive loss and Thompson’s seasoned presence, Durant’s talent would propel the Warriors back into title contention.
This transaction might revive the Warriors’ championship hopes, possibly leading to another NBA title and solidifying Durant’s legacy in Golden State. By embracing this high-risk, high-reward strategy, the Warriors want to capitalize on their current window of opportunity and add another chapter to their illustrious dynasty.