Pair of Western Conference teams interested in trading for former MVP

Could the Mavericks pull off another trade shocker before Thursday’s deadline?

According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, David Aldridge and Anthony Slater, the Mavericks are hopeful of adding Kevin Durant to his former Nets teammate Kyrie Irving and newly-acquired Anthony Davis to form a new superstar trio. The Athletic’s reporters caution that a Durant deal this week to Dallas is unlikely but demonstrates the approach of Mavs GM Nico Harrison, who appears to be targeting big-time stars with the aim of winning a championship ASAP.

The Rockets, who are known to covet Devin Booker, are also contemplating a run at Durant, per The Athletic. While the Rockets have a young, seemingly sustainable core,  adding an impact player like Durant might vault them into true title contender status this season. Houston currently has the West’s third-best record.

As reported on Monday, the Warriors are also in pursuit of Durant but thus far the Suns have set an exorbitant asking price in exploratory talks. One of the players the Suns want in return is Draymond Green, who starred at owner Mat Ishbia’s alma mater, Michigan State. The Suns also have a level of interest in forward Jonathan Kuminga, a restricted free agent after the season.

The Suns remain Jimmy Butler‘s preferred destination but talks with the Heat have stalled because Miami doesn’t want Bradley Beal in return. Beal, who anticipates remaining with Phoenix past the deadline, according to The Athletic, would have to waive his no-trade clause to be dealt. Trading Durant could provide an alternate pathway for Phoenix to enhance its offer to Miami for Butler.

Interestingly, the Suns list Durant as doubtful to play on Wednesday against OKC due to an ankle sprain, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype tweets. It could be construed as a way to ensure Durant’s health as Phoenix pursues deadline deals, though Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports notes (via Twitter) that the star forward did turn his ankle in overtime on Monday.