Warriors have 'serious' desire in reuniting with former dynasty star

The 14-time All-Star played three seasons with the Warriors from 2016-17 through 2018-19. Golden State reached the NBA Finals all three seasons, winning twice. Durant was named Finals MVP both times.

Durant was traded to the Suns in February 2023, where he's played the past 2.5 seasons. This year, he's appeared in 38 games, averaging 26.9 points on 52.5 percent shooting, 6.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game. 

The Suns (25-23, eighth in the Western Conference) are only a game ahead of Golden State in the standings. The team's core of Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal hasn't clicked under head coach Mike Budenholzer, which could prompt the front office to make a change.

The Warriors (24-24, 11th in the Western Conference) desperately need a star to pair with Curry. They've fallen out of title contention, and while acquiring Durant won't make them a serious threat to the Thunder atop the conference, it will make them a tougher out the rest of the regular season and perhaps the play-in tournament.

On Monday afternoon, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported on "The Pat McAfee Show" that the Warriors "are legitimately calling about every All-Star player. Just name the All-Star ... LeBron [James], players like Kevin Durant, players like Jimmy Butler."

On Sunday, Butler reportedly told Golden State he wouldn't sign an extension with the franchise if traded there, likely snuffing out that avenue.

The Lakers have a fancy new toy in Luka Doncic, but they probably wouldn't part with James so soon after making that splash. However, we suppose anything is possible after that bombshell trade, which also sent Anthony Davis to the Mavericks.

With the 2025 trade deadline set for Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, Golden State is running out of time to complete a deal. It might not have the same impact as the first time, but adding Durant would certainly cause a splash.