Kevin Durant’s next move is undoubtedly the biggest talk of the NBA, perhaps even if Oklahoma City lightning is approaching the final.
Durant’s career began with lightning before a controversial move towards the Golden State Warriors. So he justified the decision with two championships and two final MVPs.
However, since then, KD’s career trajectory has been a pain. He failed for two years with Kyrie Irving and James Harden at Brooklyn Net.
Recently, he has failed to bring success to the Phoenix Suns along with Devin Booker and Bradley Beale. So it’s almost certain he will play for the fifth team next season.
Durant is deeply affiliated with the San Antonio Spurs, and Iman Shamppert believes Shams Charania knows whether the trade will occur.
Shumpert discussed Durant’s future in ESPN’s NBA Finals Game 5 coverage. He actually thinks he has the best chance of winning another ring with the Minnesota Timber Wolves.
“He just wants to play for the championship, and I think that makes the most sense in Minnesota,” he said.
But Shumpert explained why the move to the Spurs made perfect sense, especially at this stage of Durant’s career.
“But I think I’m just in San Antonio and have that coaching and organization behind him…
“We talk about keeping that guy healthy. We talk about making sure guys don’t play too many games and knowing the ups and downs of the end of their careers. I think they just understand.”
When Charania made those comments, he served on set with Shumpert, and one Spurs fan tweeted that his body language suggested something important.
“I know what Shams mean, it’s going to be a great summer,” Shampert replied, suggesting that Charania knows Durant will join the Spurs.
- San Antonio Spurs receive: Kevin Durant
- Phoenix Sands receive: Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, 2025 1st Round Pick (via ATL, #14), 2027 1st Round Pick (via ATL)
The Phoenix Suns would have been pleased to see the Orlando Magic give up on Desmond Bain’s two role players and four first round picks.
It can be argued that Durant is a much better player than Bane, so he should return an even bigger trade package.
However, KD is 36 years old and has only one year left on his contract. So, an exciting young player, Devin Vassel, solid veteran Harrison Burns, two first round picks are probably enough.
This will result in the Spurs starting five times: DeaaronFox, Stephon Castle, Keldon Johnson, Kevin Durant, and Victor Wembanyama.