Now that it’s been reported that Kevin Durant would be interested in a trade to the Philadelphia 76ers, we explore whether he should be a priority target.
The Philadelphia 76ers entered the offseason with the need to improve the roster after losing in the second round of the playoffs to the Miami Heat. They’ve done that to a certain extent but I don’t think the addition of PJ Tucker is a move that will take this team over the top.
However, there is now the potential for one other move that could possibly accomplish that.
According to a recent report, Kevin Durant is now open to trades to the Boston Celtics or Philadelphia 76ers – in addition to the Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat.
The question is, how much of a priority should the Sixers make of a possible pursuit of Durant?
In a vacuum, perhaps the Sixers should be all-in on Durant. He’s still playing at an extremely high level and when he’s healthy and engaged is one of the most unstoppable forces in the league. On a new team, with an expected chip on his shoulder, we can expect a high-level performance from Durant this upcoming season.
The big question for Durant though, is how long will that last? And it’s a fair one to ask.
Durant will be 34 years old by the time next season begins and considering his injury history, there’s no guarantee that he’ll be able to continue to play at a high level for the foreseeable future. All that considered, this is till Kevin Durant we’re talking about. Who, from all indications, is still in the midst of his prime.
It’s no surprise that it’s been reported that there are some high-ranking officials in Philadelphia that would be interested in Durant. In fact, it would be malpractice if they weren’t. Durant is a top-three player in the league, even if you don’t believe he’s the best player in the league right now.
Either way, if Durant has any interest in playing for the Sixers (which he reportedly does), I don’t think the Sixers can just shut down that opportunity.
Many expected the Sixers to attempt to make a splash move this offseason. That hasn’t happened yet. Perhaps that will change over the next couple of weeks now that it seems Durant may be in play for the Sixers.