09 February 2023 , 08:11
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Kevin Durant is set to shock the NBA world with a sensational trade from Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns.
Phoenix are set to acquire 34-year-old Durant as part of a blockbuster deadline trade with forward T.J Warren.
And Durant is the latest big name ready to leave Brooklyn after the Nets traded star guard Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks.
The Nets agreed to trade Durant to the ambitious Suns at the eleventh hour in exchange for a number of players and first-round picks.
ESPN reports that Durant was angling for a move before Thursday's trade deadline and new Suns majority owner Mat Ishbia pushed aggressively to pull off the deal.
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And, in exchange, the Nets will welcome forwards Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder and Cameron Johnson as well as the four-first round picks and a 2028 swap with Phoenix.
Irving was asked about Durant's proposed trade after leaving Brooklyn at the beginning of the week, and confirmed the duo had discussed moves long before they materialised.
“We had a lot of conversations throughout the year about what our futures were going to look like," he said after his Mavericks debut against the LA Clippers.
"There was still a level of uncertainty, but we just cared about seeing each other be in places where we can thrive… I’m just glad he got out of there.
Durant has sealed a late trade to the Suns"And whether that be together or that be apart, there’s never been one moment where I felt like he’s been angry at me for decisions I made or I’ve been angry at him.”
The Nets had acquired Durant and Irving in 2019, but the star assets have left four years later with the franchise left to ponder their underachievement with two of the biggest talents in NBA.
The duo had been tipped to lead Brooklyn to NBA championships, but the Nets never got past the Eastern Conference semi-final stage during their time together.
Phoenix fans may have to wait until after the All-Star break to see Durant make his debut as he is currently nursing a sprain in his right knee.