For a brief period, the Golden State Warriors were considered the favorites to acquire Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant in a trade. However, their focus quickly shifted to Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler after tensions emerged regarding a potential Durant reunion.
According to a report, there were “cold” feelings between Durant and the Warriors, which ultimately led Golden State to pursue Butler in a blockbuster multi-team deal. This trade might not have materialized if not for key information allegedly provided by Warriors star Stephen Curry.
As reported by Anthony Slater of The Athletic, Curry spoke with Durant and “convinced him a reunion was extremely unlikely,” despite the Warriors’ ownership and front office underestimating Durant’s reluctance to return. NBA insider Marc Stein echoed this sentiment, stating that Durant has significant reservations about rejoining the Warriors.
During his time with Golden State, Durant won two championships and appeared in three NBA Finals, but his later move to the Brooklyn Nets made it clear that his decisions weren’t solely about winning titles.
Draymond Green’s fiery personality could have further complicated any potential reunion, but even if the Warriors had moved on from their defensive star, Durant might not have been open to a second chance. In the end, Durant chose to remain in Phoenix—unless team governor Mat Ishbia decides otherwise as the trade deadline approaches.
While Durant’s decision to stay with the Suns instead of rejoining a team where he won multiple championships may seem “cold,” it at least gave Stephen Curry the clarity needed for the Warriors to move forward. With that information, Golden State successfully pivoted and secured a trade for Jimmy Butler.
