Now that Kyrie Irving has been traded, much of the league's focus has shifted to the potential availability of Kevin Durant, who requested a trade himself last summer.
But with the trade deadline just two days away, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the Nets are not planning, nor have they shown any willingness, to deal their last remaining superstar.
Per Wojnarowski, Durant and the organization are "having ongoing conversations on the direction of the franchise," as Brooklyn likely seeks to sell Durant on the team still contending now, and in the near future, despite trading away Irving and James Harden in consecutive seasons. Durant reportedly asked to be traded prior to this season because he didn't like the direction the franchise was taking, particularly from a culture and accountability standpoint.
Brooklyn seemed to be stabilizing on that front after Irving returned from suspension and the Nets went on a roll, but as contract talks between Irving and the Nets stalled, Irving wanted out, and was dealt within 48 hours, leaving only Durant left to try and lead this Brooklyn team to a title.
Durant is still under contract for three more years, so even if he decided he wanted to put his trade request back on the table, the Nets wouldn't have to oblige. But Durant's feelings towards the franchise and what he wants for his future could play a pivotal role in whether Brooklyn continues its push for a title, or goes into a rebuild.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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