Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green recently shared details about a near trade that would have sent Kevin Durant back to the Bay Area. In an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Green recounted the events that unfolded during a Warriors charity poker tournament, the same night news broke about Luka Dončić's trade to the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to Green, Warriors majority owner Joe Lacob excitedly approached him with the news. "Joe goes, ‘Draymond, I think we’re going to get Kevin Durant. It’s right there at the finish line. It’s happening. We’re getting Kevin Durant back.’" Green, naturally, was thrilled at the prospect of reuniting with Durant, who had previously helped the Warriors secure two NBA championships.
However, the excitement was short-lived. Lacob quickly returned, cautioning Green to keep the information to himself. The situation took another turn when Steph Curry asked Green about the trade he had seen. Green, initially assuming it was the Durant deal, soon discovered that Curry was referring to the Dončić trade.
The Warriors' Pursuit and the Suns' Season
While the Durant trade ultimately fell through, it's clear that the Warriors were actively exploring options to bolster their roster. Arizona Sports' John Gambadoro confirmed that the Suns received inquiries about Durant from other teams, including Golden State. Eventually, the Warriors acquired Jimmy Butler, aiming to improve their playoff chances.
Butler's arrival helped the Warriors secure the sixth seed in the Western Conference with a 48-34 record. However, their playoff run was cut short in the second round against the Minnesota Timberwolves, a series significantly impacted by Steph Curry's injury.
Durant's Time with the Suns
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns experienced a disappointing season. Despite Durant's individual talent, the Suns finished as the 11th seed in the Western Conference with a 36-46 record, missing the playoffs. Durant's tenure with the Suns has been marked by inconsistency and a struggle to find team success.
This near trade serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the NBA and the constant pursuit of championship contention. While Durant's return to Golden State didn't materialize, the story provides a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dealings of NBA franchises.