Kevin Durant had a disappointing season with the Phoenix Suns this season, getting swept in the first round in the playoffs after a second-round exit the year prior. Since leaving the Golden State Warriors, Durant has only made it to the second round of the playoffs and many still remember the superstar winning back-to-back Finals MVPs.
Meanwhile, the Warriors missed the playoffs this year and are at risk of failing to keep their dynasty running despite the superstar presence of Stephen Curry who averaged 26.4 points per game. A few months ago, we discussed the major reasons why Kevin Durant is destined to retire with the Warriors, and it might be time for that reunion to happen.
For Durant to return to the team that he helped deliver two NBA championships and save the dynasty, there are three different trade scenarios to make this situation happen this summer.
Trade Scenario No. 1
Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2025 Second-Round Pick (MIL)
In Trade Scenario No. 1, the Warriors acquire Kevin Durant by sending a significant package to the Suns. Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody provide the Suns with a blend of veteran leadership, defensive prowess, and young talent. Wiggins brings scoring and defense, Green offers unmatched defensive versatility and playmaking, while Podziemski and Moody are promising young prospects with high ceilings. The addition of future draft picks sweetens the deal for the Suns, ensuring they have assets to build for the future.
From the Warriors’ perspective, reuniting with Durant (27.1 PPG) could be a game-changer. Durant’s scoring ability, combined with the existing firepower of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson (17.9 PPG on 38.7% 3-PT FG this season) who will re-sign, would make Golden State a formidable offensive force. The loss of Green and Wiggins would be felt defensively, but Durant’s presence would create mismatches for any opposing team. This move also signals the Warriors’ commitment to maximizing their championship window with Curry and Thompson (who would be willing to re-sign a long-term deal on a discount).
This trade could lead the Warriors to another NBA title, solidifying their dynasty and potentially allowing Durant to retire as a Warriors player. The mix of offensive talent and championship experience would make them a favorite in the league, revitalizing their quest for another ring.
Trade Scenario No. 2
Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Klay Thompson (Sign and Trade), Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, 2029 First-Round Pick
In this trade, the Suns receive Klay Thompson in a sign-and-trade, along with Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and a 2029 first-round pick. Thompson brings championship experience and elite shooting to Phoenix, fitting well alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Wiggins (13.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG) and Kuminga (career-high 16.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG) add depth and athleticism, while Podziemski (9.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG) offers future potential. This trade allows the Suns to remain competitive with regards to depth as Booker returns as the number one option.
For the Warriors, acquiring Durant in exchange for Thompson and Wiggins would be a strategic move to bolster their scoring and versatility. Durant’s ability to play multiple positions and create his shot would complement Curry and the rest of the roster perfectly. Losing Thompson and Wiggins would impact their perimeter defense, but Durant’s offensive impact would likely offset these losses and the likes of Moses Moody (8.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG in 2023-24) would have a greater role on the team although the team’s depth would take a hit.
The result of this trade would be a rejuvenated Warriors squad with a high chance of winning another NBA championship. The reunion with Durant would bring back memories of their previous dominance, potentially leading to another title run and reinforcing their legacy as one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history.
Trade Scenario No. 3
Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Klay Thompson (Sign and Trade), Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Trayce Jackson-Davis
Trade Scenario No. 3 sees the Suns acquiring Klay Thompson in a sign-and-trade, along with Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Thompson’s sharpshooting and Green’s defensive leadership would immediately bolster Phoenix’s roster. Kuminga and Moody provide youthful potential, while Jackson-Davis adds depth to their frontcourt. This trade offers the Suns a blend of experience and future assets, keeping them competitive now and later.
For the Warriors, reuniting with Durant by parting with Thompson, Green, and a trio of young players signifies a bold move to stay at the top. Durant’s scoring prowess and ability to play multiple positions would elevate the Warriors’ offense, creating a dynamic trio with Curry and Thompson. Despite the defensive loss of Green and the veteran presence of Thompson, Durant’s talent would make the Warriors a title contender once again.
This trade could reignite the Warriors’ championship aspirations, potentially leading to another NBA title and cementing Durant’s legacy in Golden State. By embracing this high-risk, high-reward strategy, the Warriors aim to maximize their current window of opportunity and add another chapter to their storied dynasty.
Which Trade Scenario Is The Most Realistic?
Among the three trade scenarios, the most realistic one is Trade Scenario No. 1. This scenario balances the Warriors’ need to acquire a superstar like Kevin Durant while offering the Suns a mix of proven talent and promising young players. The inclusion of Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green gives Phoenix immediate contributors who can keep them competitive, while Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody provide valuable future assets.
The addition of draft picks further sweetens the deal, giving the Suns flexibility for future moves. This trade not only addresses the needs of both teams but also keeps the core of the Warriors intact, making it a compelling and exciting move that could reshape the NBA landscape and reignite Golden State’s championship aspirations which could mean Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry retire with at least an extra NBA title together.
