Durant reunion – Why Stephen Curry’s openness isn’t a surprise

News continues to circulate in the wake of Kevin Durant’s trade request from the Brooklyn Nets, including the possibility of a reunion with his former team, the Golden State Warriors.

While a potential reunion seemed incredibly unlikely in the immediate aftermath of the news, it now appears like a deal could be gaining traction. There is still quite a bit that would go into a deal for the former MVP.

Stephen Curry’s selflessness could open the door for Brooklyn star Kevin Durant to join the Golden State Warriors for a second time. 

As a guest on the Dan Patrick Show, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst provided a fascinating update on Durant and a potential return to the team where he became a two-time Finals MVP.

"“There’s legitimate sources in the league telling me that it’s a discussion…It says a lot about Steph Curry, that Steph is willing to subjugate to Durant in the past. This has been a discussion in the Warriors organization. Curry has been asked about it. Curry gave a non-answer, he didn’t shut it down. He didn’t say, ‘Hell no,’ which he has every right to do.”"

Curry’s reported openness to a Durant return, or at least a non-rejection to the idea, is hardly cause for surprise. This is ultimately for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, from a basketball standpoint, a healthy Durant would increase the Warriors’ short-term championship hopes, even if their future is decimated by such a trade. Curry is 34 and we’ll want to maximize his prime, Durant will aid with that.

Curry’s fourth championship and first Finals MVP has left him with nothing to prove. After question marks over the two championships with Durant present, the two-time MVP re-asserted his ability to be the best player on a championship team.

Curry’s legacy can only be grown by more championships. Again, Durant aids in those aspirations. Sure, winning without Durant may be more satisfying, but he’s now done that twice anyway.

Lastly and most importantly, Curry has a trust in his front office like no other superstar in the league. Of course, he’ll have an opinion on the move, but there’s also a good chance he leaves it up to the front office.

If Joe Lacob and Bob Myers want to keep the franchise’s young core, then Curry will be fine in the knowledge he carried them to a championship last season.

If they wish to trade for Durant, Curry will be just as content knowing the Warriors will likely go into next season as championship favorites.