It’s no secret that the relationship between superstar Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets has soured immensely. What’s even more interesting is that Irving is just a couple of months removed from saying in an interview “I can’t leave my guy 7” (Durant). Now it seems that Irving will be indeed leaving Durant, as the pattern of him making promises that he wants to build with a franchise (i.e. his Celtics tenure) and then backing out of them during his career continues to play out.
While this Irving drama plays out, people are quick to forget that in the shadows lurks the K.D situation, which, if Kyrie leaves, means that more likely than not he will leave Brooklyn as well. I can’t say I blame him, he signed on thinking he would be part of a dynamic duo, but then gets back-ended and now is stuck picking up the pieces.
More likely than not, if Irving leaves and signs with another team, then Durant will express his desire to be traded as well (with good reason). So, in saying that, where are some destinations that Durant could fit in if the Nets fulfill his wishes? Let’s jump right in and find out.
#1- Portland Trailblazers
If Durant does decide to leave, why wouldn’t he want to sign with Damian Lillard, arguably the second-best point guard in the NBA? Could you imagine coming up against a lineup that houses both KD and Dame? Opposing team defenses should be waking up with cold sweats if this signing happens. Add to the fact that Jerami Grant just arrived in Portland, this team could be scary good heading forward.
The Trailblazers also have some great depth pieces and draft stock they could use as leverage in the trade, so it wouldn’t be too taxing on their resources. I honestly think this would be a match made in heaven because both are superstars and both want one single thing; to win a ring (KD for his legacy).
#2- Dallas Mavericks
Another star point guard to pair up with a perennial scorer such as Durant, Doncic would complement KD’s game perfectly. Not only is Doncic a supreme scorer, but he’s also a superb passer and playmaker, capable of churning out jaw-dropping plays and having you say “how’d he do that?”.Durant has ties to the area already, as he played college ball for the Texas Longhorns.
After having acquired star center Christian Wood from the Rockets a couple of weeks ago, the Mavs could quickly build a superteam if they somehow add Durant into the mix as well. Could you imagine a lineup of KD, Doncic, and Wood at the 5? Scary!
#3- Miami Heat
This may be the team that fits Kevin Durant’s playing style the most, and we have Stephen A. Smith for bringing this to light. As the famous analyst mentions, Durant just wants to play ball and isn’t for all the drama that comes in today’s NBA (the 80’s and 90’s stars are probably shaking their heads at how soft the league has gotten). “Miami is the perfect destination” as Stephen A. explains, “because Pat Riley is running the show”.
The Heat are one of the most successful franchises in NBA history, and it’s no surprise that has a lot to do with President Pat Riley and his involvement with the team. If I’m KD, I’m heading down to Florida, teaming up with “Jimmy Buckets” and the gang, and winning some more rings.
Where do you think KD should go? Let me know in the comments below!