Following Luka Dončić’s shocking move to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this year, the NBA’s power dynamics could shift even more dramatically—this time, across town. Reports now link Kevin Durant to the LA Clippers as a top trade target this offseason, as the franchise looks to bounce back from yet another first-round playoff exit.
After falling to the Denver Nuggets in Game 7, the Clippers are left soul-searching. Cracks in Tyronn Lue’s offensive system were exposed, and the pressure is mounting to pair Kawhi Leonard and James Harden with another elite scorer. Durant, a two-time NBA champion still performing at an elite level, fits the bill.
Meanwhile, Durant himself could be seeking a fresh start. Despite putting up big numbers, the Phoenix Suns failed to even qualify for the postseason, sparking speculation that KD may want out of the desert—and fast.
A new superteam on the horizon: Can the Clippers bring Kevin Durant in?
For the Clippers to land Kevin Durant, several factors need to align. The first is James Harden. The veteran guard is expected to opt out of his $36.3 million player option and may be willing to take a pay cut to stay in LA and chase a title. Despite some offensive inconsistencies, Harden’s elite playmaking has been vital for the Clippers, particularly when Kawhi has been sidelined. If he stays, it opens the door for a Durant-Leonard-Harden trio that could rival any superteam in the league.
Keeping Ivica Zubac will also be key. The big man has been a defensive anchor and would be essential in a lineup built around high-usage stars. But to acquire Durant, the Clippers would still need to send a compelling package to Phoenix.
A potential deal could involve Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanović, Derrick Jones Jr., Drew Eubanks, and valuable 2031 first- and second-round picks. For the Suns, who are likely entering a rebuild, this trade could provide the depth and future flexibility they desperately need.
It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible either. If Harden is on board with a pay cut, and if the Clippers can craft an attractive enough package without gutting their core, Kevin Durant could very well be Hollywood-bound.
And just like that, LA might be home to two superteams.
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Dan has been active in sports since 2016 and has worked behind the scenes as a scriptwriter for basketball, volleyball, and other sports. At a time, Dan has also been working as a sports commentator for CBA Pilipinas. During the pandemic, he has also been actively writing betting articles for CashBet and BetNow.
