The Boston Celtics have emerged as a possible trade destination for Kevin Durant, according to reports.
The 12-time All-Star forward rocked the Brooklyn Nets by requesting a trade last month, having joined the franchise in 2019.
Having won back-to-back NBA titles in 2017 and 2018 during his time with the Golden State Warriors, being named the finals’ MVP on both occasions, Durant has reportedly shown signs of discontent with the Nets’ failure to compete for a first-ever NBA title.
The Nets’ 2022 playoff campaign was halted by a first-round defeat to the Celtics, who now appear to be in the hunt for Durant’s signature.
According to a report from ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Celtics’ ability to include 2021 All-star forward Jaylen Brown in any deal makes them a strong contender to acquire Durant, who is under contract until 2026.
Durant is expected to command a huge trade package, and ESPN claim Boston could offer as many as three unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps alongside Brown’s services.
The Miami Heat, the Phoenix Suns and the Toronto Raptors have also been credited with an interest in Durant, who led the Nets with an average of 29.9 points per game across his 2021-22 regular-season campaign, posting a 36-19 record in his 55 outings.