With the LA Clippers set to have room for two max salary slots this upcoming summer, the franchise has their eyes on a trio of star small forwards, including Golden State’s Kevin Durant.
The Los Angeles Clippers have been linked to several rumors as of late surrounding star wings with impending free agency. Kawhi Leonard has been linked to the Clippers for months now as one of his preferred destinations next summer. Trade talks between the Clippers and the Timberwolves around Jimmy Butler, who is seeking a max contract, have continued. And now Kevin Durant‘s services have been added to LA’s lofty wish list next summer, according to Yahoo Sport’s Chris Haynes.
Durant to the Clippers is definitely the dark horse candidate of the upcoming free agent trio. Both Butler and Leonard have reportedly expressed interest in coming to LA recently, while KD has been more coy on his plans after the season. Coming off his second straight Finals MVP, Durant has not given any indication of where he could go next summer, but he also hasn’t committed to staying with the Golden State Warriors long-term. The allure of playing in Los Angeles, plus the chance of possibly joining another star wing gives the Clippers a strong pitch, even if it seems like a long shot.
While most would probably laugh at the idea that Kevin Durant would leave the Warriors to come to the Clippers, it is not completely far-fetched. During Kevin Durant’s 2016 free agency the Clippers were one of the teams that Durant was reportedly interested in meeting with. As we all know Durant would ultimately sign with the Warriors. And who did KD speak with in 2016, helping him decide to join the Warriors? Jerry West. The same Jerry West that is now working in the Clippers front office. Can The Logo work his magic again and bring Durant to Los Angeles?
There is a very real chance that the Clippers strike out on all three star wings, but if the dominoes fall the right way. The Clippers could emerge as a prime destination for Durant next summer.