The Ringer lists the Rockets as a possible KD destination.
It seems like mainstream news sources are trying to put Houston in their trade proposals every week. At this point, Houston is NBA media’s shiny new toy regarding trade proposals. NBA’s Ringer.com posted an article talking about why the Suns should trade Kevin Durant, and I decided to give my thoughts on it.
The Pros
When the time comes, it could make sense to add Durant for a deal that wouldn’t shorten the Rockets’ promising path to championship contention, even though General Manager Rafael Stone has stated that he isn’t interested in making any major moves before the season ends.
No, Durant doesn’t share Houston’s rising core’s timeline, and the Suns shouldn’t let him go just yet. Although Devin Booker, 28, is a very good player with three years left on his contract, KD may be the only offensive player who could give the Rockets, who are currently second in the Western Conference, a real chance to win the championship without jeopardizing the long-term growth of any other player on the team.
Additionally, due to the second apron, Phoenix can’t take back more money than they give out. Ringer.com suggested a trade package of Fred VanVleet, and Jeff Green (to fulfill salary requirements) the return of Phoenix’s picks, and one other unprotected future first.
The Cons
Durant is on a large contract next season he will make around $55 million. Additionally, he only is under contract for this season and the season after. However, my main gripe with making a Durant trade is that this Rockets team seems to gel together quite well. Despite the absences of Jabari Smith Jr. (broken left hand) and Tari Eason (left leg injury management), Houston has not missed a beat and recently picked up two wins over Memphis and another over the Denver Nuggets. To me, making a trade like this is a very win-now move. We have not even seen this team in a playoff basketball setting. Additionally, while I am all right about moving on from Fred VanVleet in the starting lineup, I think keeping him on this team is necessary. The team is better when Fred is calmly managing the offense.
What about ya’ll? Would you trade for Durant? How much are you willing to give up? What do you think about The Ringer’s trade proposal? Tell us in the comments and vote in our poll.