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NBA Rumor: Kevin Durant To Reunite With Russell Westbrook 2 Nov 26, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) talks to Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the third quarter at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

NBA Rumors: Kevin Durant Joining Dallas Mavericks Hinted By Ex-NBA Player

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 9:12 PM ET

This summer is shaping up to be a hot one in the NBA, as rumors swirl about Kevin Durant potentially parting ways with the Phoenix Suns. Before the trade deadline, reports suggested the Suns had laid the groundwork for a deal that would send Durant back to the Golden State Warriors.

However, Kevin Durant dismissed those rumors, saying that while an offseason trade could be considered, he has no interest in being traded midseason.

Although Kevin Durant’s next destination remains uncertain, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins believes he could be the key to reviving the struggling Dallas Mavericks. The team has faced mounting criticism, with fans chanting “Fire Nico” during a recent 112–97 blowout loss to the Lakers, targeting GM Nico Harrison for the team’s woes.

On NBA Today last Thursday, Perkins proposed a bold move for Dallas: “You know how they can make it right? As soon as the season is over, you go out and get Kevin Durant. That’s how you make it right.”

Perkins added that it wouldn’t be difficult for the Mavs to land Kevin Durant, as he believes they have the assets to acquire him—despite his hefty $54.7 million salary for next season.

The Big Three That Almost Was: Kevin Durant’s botched trio in Dallas

Ahead of February’s trade deadline, Kevin Durant was already a major subject of speculation. One scenario even had him joining forces with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis in Dallas—a trio that would’ve shaken up the league.

While the Suns were also exploring ways to move Bradley Beal and his no-trade clause to pursue Jimmy Butler, Durant’s trade buzz drew even more attention.

Mar 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) helps up guard Devin Booker (1) from the floor during the second half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the Mavericks weren’t done chasing stars after acquiring Anthony Davis from the Lakers. Amick reported that GM Nico Harrison “had dreams of adding Durant to their Davis–Kyrie Irving–led group.”

NBA Rumors: Kevin Durant Joining Dallas Mavericks Hinted By Ex-NBA Player 60 Mar 17, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) shoots over Toronto Raptors forward Jamison Battle (77) in the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Durant’s long-standing relationship with Nike—a company where Harrison was once a top executive—adds another layer of intrigue, potentially giving Dallas an inside track.

Phoenix Suns' Head Coach Issues a Blunt Statement Following Their Loss Against the Celtics 135 Mar 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) celebrates after a play during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Though the Mavericks fell short of bringing KD to the American Airlines Center before the deadline, the possibility of revisiting the deal this offseason remains alive. If Dallas can pull it off, they might just turn a franchise in crisis into a true contender.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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