The San Antonio Spurs would love a quick turnaround back into NBA championship contention ... and a path there is now being presented to them.
Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns are in the midst of a breakup, with a trade seemingly inevitable. So one of this era's greatest talents, even at age 36, is available.
And three teams have emerged as the KD's preferred landing spots ...
A list that includes the Spurs.
Also noted in a leak according to ESPN's Shams Charania? The Miami Heat and Houston Rockets ... with the idea that Durant would commit to a new long-term contract with those clubs - something he might not do otherwise.
Durant has only one year remaining on his current deal and could elect free agency next summer if sent to a team that he doesn't wish to stay with.
The Suns are sending the message that this won't be a give-away deal; they want real value in the best interest of their franchise.
So we're about to find out who has the leverage here.
The Spurs are certainly positioned to make a blockbuster move, with young superstar Victor Wembanyama as the centerpiece. ... and more assets piling up as the supporting cast for the Frenchman. De'Aaron Fox is an All-Star. The NBA Rookie of the Year is Stephon Castle. The Spurs own the No. 2 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft ... and could in theory use that pick in this sort of trade.
Durant, who is playing on that aforementioned expiring $54.7 million deal for the 2025-26 season, is eligible to sign a new a two-year contract extension on July 6 worth as much as $122 million.
Durant made his 15th All-Star team this season and averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds and 4.2 assists in 62 games. He's a sure-fire future Hall of Famer who figures to lift a team like the Spurs - who finished 34-48 - back into true NBA Finals contention.