The Pacers are up 2-1 in the NBA Finals after a clutch Game 3 win over the Thunder, but the real action isn’t just on the court. Kevin Durant is swirling in trade rumors, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s status has everyone guessing (though Milwaukee says he’s untouchable) and the Knicks are eyeing their next big coaching move.
There’s never a dull moment in the NBA — it feeds off the drama, but these aren’t just any players; we’re talking superstars.
Where could Durant end up? What’s the perfect fantasy landing spot for Giannis? Here, I’m breaking down the potential outcomes and ideal fits for fantasy basketball.
Kevin Durant – SF/PF, Phoenix Suns
Of the options Shams Charania highlighted above, I’m most intrigued by Durant’s landing with the Spurs. That, of course, assumes San Antonio can hold onto the core of De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama. I like Devin Vassell, too, but if he’s the main asking price, I’m willing to include him if it means getting KD. Durant can fit seamlessly into any situation, as he has been one of the most gifted, efficient scorers in the game while also being an effective defender, capable rebounder and playmaker.
KD always gets his; outside of his rookie season, Durant hasn’t finished outside of 12th overall in 9-cat leagues. Even as he approaches 37, the opportunity to bring in a Hall-of-Fame sniper and veteran to a young team matters, especially when considering the upside of playing alongside a generational talent like Wemby.
A motivated KD playing in a faster-paced offense with the space and gravity he provides is an exciting prospect. There’s a world where we see Durant’s skill set optimized a bit more since the Spurs have a more well-balanced roster.
The age and injury concerns are valid. But the Spurs have the pieces to make a splash, and if they do, KD is worth it.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – PF/C, Milwaukee Bucks
It appears we’re in a holding pattern. The Greek Freak has not informed the Bucks that he wants to be traded, and the Bucks have not outwardly expressed interest in trading him. And why would they? He’s the most impactful franchise player they’ve drafted since Lou Alcindor (Kareem-Abdul Jabbar).
The fact is, the Bucks’ draft capital and trade assets are limited. With Damian Lillard out indefinitely due to a torn Achilles, the Bucks don’t have much leverage should Giannis request to be traded.
When it comes to fantasy fit, I’m locked in on the Rockets.
Houston has the picks and players to make a compelling offer to Milwaukee that would aid in reshaping its aging roster. Now, it comes down to what Giannis is looking for. Leaving the Eastern Conference for a crowded Western Conference is not the wave. Alternatively, I can’t help but think Giannis would mesh well with Rockets head coach Ime Udoka. The defensive potential playing with Amen Thompson and Tari Eason is undeniable. And it’s not like Giannis’ numbers would suffer because he’s freaking Giannis.
That’s my wish, although it’s probably more likely that nothing will happen next year, at least.
Giannis has consistently demonstrated loyalty throughout his entire career. Twelve years with the same franchise. He’s the franchise leader in nearly every statistical category. Lillard getting hurt was random and by all accounts, he’ll do everything in his power to come back fully healthy. The middle-to-bottom tier of the East is so volatile; who’s to say the Bucks can’t reconfigure a playoff-contending roster?
It’s possible.
I also believe that teams blow up their young core too early and I’d like to see one more look at this iteration of the Rockets. Regardless, if Giannis becomes available, every team should inquire.
Fantasy-wise, these two superstars remain first-rounders irrespective of where they’re playing.
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