The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a disappointing 26-win season. But the front office is playing it cool because they boast a stellar core featuring the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, Cooper Flagg, alongside superstar guard Kyrie Irving.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant has yet to settle in with the Houston Rockets. While Durant joined Houston with clear championship aspirations, his roster fell short this past postseason, suffering an early first-round exit at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers.
KD hasn't really found a permanent home since he left Golden State, and now the pieces are on the board for one of the wildest hypothetical trades of the offseason. Plus, the fit makes sense from every angle.
Flagg looked like a franchise cornerstone from day one, averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists as a rookie. Irving is 34 and ready to deliver his best once he returns. In this scenario, 37-year-old Durant can give Dallas a third scorer who does not need to dominate the ball.
The trade proposal from Heavy.com sends Durant and guard Tre Mann to Dallas. Houston would get P.J. Washington, Caleb Martin, Max Christie, Dereck Lively II, a 2027 second-round pick (via Chicago), a 2028 first-round pick and a 2031 first-round pick. Charlotte Hornets, the third team in the deal, would receive a 2032 second-round pick for facilitating.
This is a steep price for Dallas since they give up two first-rounders and starting center Dereck Lively II, but can keep Flagg's window open. Durant will take the tough shots late in games, Flagg will act as the secondary creator and Irving will run the offense.
The best part of this proposed trade? Durant and Irving already know how to play together from their two seasons in Brooklyn.
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