Pistons reportedly pursued Rockets' $90M two-time NBA champion, former MVP in mega trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Last season, the Houston Rockets had a hard time finding consistency throughout the year despite having a really solid team. It was their first season with Kevin Durant, and at times, the team looked special.
However, there were other times when the Rockets looked sloppy. The belief is that injuries to Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet took a toll on the team.
“Interviews with team sources and those with knowledge of the team's operations reveal that the VanVleet injury, and the season-ending ankle injury to Steven Adams later on, impacted the team in ways that extended off the floor. Beyond the team's glaring lack of playmaking, their absences created a massive leadership void that Durant and the team struggled to fill," ESPN's Ramona Shelburne and Tim MacMahon wrote.
One of the most confusing parts of the Rockets' offseason was that Durant wasn't considered untouchable in trade discussions.
“Whether or not the Rockets look to continue their partnership with Durant is the big question at large, especially since they don't view him as an "untouchable" talent in trade talks on their roster. Houston viewed the opportunity to acquire Durant as a way to upgrade from Jalen Green and bridge the gaps in their lineup to contend in the West, but by no means was this addition viewed as a long-term commitment," NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote.
It turns out that the Detroit Pistons were interested in acquiring Durant over the summer.
“The Pistons inquired about trading for Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant this offseason, according to league sources, and were positioned to offer Austin Reaves a big free agent contract if the Los Angeles Lakers opened the door. None of that materialized," ESPN's Vincent Goodwill wrote.
There is no doubt that Detroit explored some big-time moves this summer, but none came to fruition. However, the Pistons did retain their young players, so adding some veterans could be their next priority.
Durant is on a $90 million contract with Houston. He could have been a valuable addition for the Pistons, but acquiring him would have come at a price. Detroit might not be ready to pay such a hefty cost.
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