The Dallas Mavericks are eyeing Kevin Durant, but with their struggles, the trade’s complexity, high cost, and mixed reports cast doubt on its feasibility.
Despite turning down a return to Golden State, Durant’s Phoenix stint is nearing its end. Unless something changes, he’s likely on the move, with Dallas as a potential destination.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reports that Durant is already aware of the situation. Addressing trade rumors after the deadline, the former MVP commented: “It’s just business. In this league, players are bought and sold. Anyone can be traded.”
Mavericks’ Struggles and Their Desperate Need for a Star
Among the teams looking to land the veteran star, one name stands out: the Dallas Mavericks.
The team is currently struggling through one of its darkest periods. Luka Dončić’s unexpected exit, combined with a series of injuries (including Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving) and ongoing conflicts with ownership, has pushed fans to their breaking point.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks’ only way forward is to focus on immediate success. He explains, “The only way to justify this move is to win a championship within three or four years. They have to go all in.”
With their championship hopes fading, the Mavericks are now in desperate need of a superstar who can elevate them back into contention—and Durant could be the answer.
That said, pulling off a Durant trade is far from straightforward. According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, it won’t be easy: “It will be a tough trade. The Mavs would likely have to part with significant assets to make it happen.” However, if they pull it off, their championship aspirations could skyrocket: “A Big Three with Kyrie, KD, and Anthony Davis—three seasoned champions—could be their last shot at a title together.”
Are the Mavericks Really Pursuing Durant?
Despite the speculation, journalist Marc Stein believes the rumors about Dallas aggressively pursuing Durant are overblown. He states: “Right now, they’re not planning to build a three-star team.”
Unlike Phoenix, which has embraced a superstar-heavy roster with Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, Dallas appears hesitant to follow the same blueprint.
