The possibility of the Celtics landing Kevin Durant looks increasingly unlikely … at least right now. The Celtics haven't engaged in "substantive talks" about bringing Durant to Boston, reports ESPN's Zach Lowe.
That isn't surprising. Brad Stevens indicated last week the Celtics were likely done making big moves, telling reporters he doesn't want to surrender significant pieces from the roster. "We have to add without taking away," he said.
That would seemingly take Durant off the table. The Nets are reportedly seeking a gargantuan package in return for the 12-time All-Star, who's signed through 2025-26. It's surmised that any package from the Celtics would start with Jaylen Brown.
While Lowe said the Celtics "have to be wary" about Brown leaving as a free agent following the 2024 season, that is two years down the line. A lot can happen between now and then, including the Celtics re-upping Brown. He could sign a five-year, $273 million extension with the Celtics in 2024 if he makes one all-NBA team over the next three seasons.
The Durant speculation may not be making Brown all that happy, either. Earlier this summer, he "liked" a tweet saying that he's disrespected by Celtics fans.
It's been roughly three weeks since Durant's trade request was publicized, and there's still no rumored movement. In fact, some NBA analysts now say he could begin the season in Brooklyn.
The Nets have little reason to trade Durant for a sub-standard package, unless the situation becomes untenable. He listed the Suns and Heat as his top two trade destinations, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, but Phoenix reportedly plans to match DeAndre Ayton's offer sheet from the Pacers — complicating its finances.
The Celtics, meanwhile, added Malcolm Brogdon and Danilo Gallinari on the first day of free agency. Multiple sports books now consider them championship favorites, with or without Durant.
