29 Blockbuster trades involving Kevin Durant
By Tony Pesta
![OAKLAND, CA - MAY 1: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors and Anthony Davis #23 of the New Orleans Pelicans look on in Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 1, 2018 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) OAKLAND, CA - MAY 1: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors and Anthony Davis #23 of the New Orleans Pelicans look on in Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 1, 2018 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/619f54fa5c84e8cf24c84fc1e75ee6eccbed929c9320589398e0a7bac8cc7e79.jpg)
3. Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have made it clear that they are exploring the market for a star to match with rookie Luka Doncic. They believe they have found a future franchise cornerstone in Doncic and can build an elite team around him.
With the acceptance of Doncic comes the disapproval of Dennis Smith Jr. It has become obvious that Smith and Doncic do not gel well together on the court. Because of this, Smith will likely become the centerpiece of any trade the Mavericks decide to make.
Golden State would give up Durant for a return of Dennis Smith, Wesley Matthews, J.J. Barea and a 2021 first round draft pick.
Matthews built a reputation as being an elite 3-point shooter and wing defender during his time with the Portland Trail Blazers. His game has taken an obvious decline since his Achilles injury in 2015, but I believe in the right situation he can once again be productive.
Of course, Barea has been on a championship winning team before and knows what it takes to get the job done. His presence would be welcomed. Lastly, Smith receives a change of scenery and the opportunity to perfect his craft behind one of the leagues best point guards in Stephen Curry.