The premature exits of Kevin Durant and Steph Curry from the 2024 NBA playoffs may prompt them to consider reuniting as teammates for the Golden State Warriors. According to Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area, the two basketball stars could explore the possibility of rejoining forces during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they will play together on Team USA, marking their first collaboration since Durant’s departure from the Bay Area in 2019.
During their time together at the Olympics, Poole suggests that Durant and Curry, along with coach Steve Kerr, will have ample opportunity to reconnect and discuss the potential of a reunion. Poole also mentions that the Warriors are committed to capitalizing on Curry’s remaining prime years and are prepared to leave no stone unturned in assembling a championship-caliber roster for the upcoming season. Warriors governor Joe Lacob might even personally extend an invitation for Durant to return to the team.
Although it might seem like a stretch, Poole believes that a reunion between Durant and the Warriors is plausible. However, such a move would likely involve significant trade negotiations, possibly including players like Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins, as well as multiple first-round draft picks, to secure Durant’s return from the Phoenix Suns.
Reports indicate that Durant’s time in Phoenix has been less than ideal, with friction between him and coach Frank Vogel, as well as discomfort with his role in the Suns’ offense alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. This dissatisfaction could open the door for a potential return to Golden State.
Despite past tensions, insider J. A. Adande suggests that Durant and Draymond Green have reconciled and would welcome a reunion. However, uncertainties remain, including Durant’s willingness to return to the Warriors and concerns about recreating the success of their previous partnership.
Critics have blamed Durant for leaving Golden State in 2019, suggesting that his departure contributed to the premature end of the Warriors dynasty. Analysts like Alan Hahn have pointed to Durant’s susceptibility to external pressures, such as social media, as a factor in his decision-making.
A potential reunion between Durant and the Warriors offers an opportunity for redemption, allowing Durant to address past criticisms and potentially recapture the success he experienced in Golden State.
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