NBA Rumors: One Western Conference Contender "Remains Interested" In Durant Trade

While Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets continue to battle over a trade request and an ultimatum delivered by the player to the owner, a new report today links the New Orleans Pelicans to the discontented Brooklyn Nets star. 

Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News says that "the Pelicans remain interested in a deal for Durant, according to a source." 

The Pelicans are still interested in trading for Kevin Durant and could have a solid package to build around Brandon Ingram, per @Krisplashed pic.twitter.com/I2oajkvj0D

— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) August 9, 2022

The Pelicans re-established themselves as contenders late last season, after the acquisition of CJ McCollum, and the continued emergence of All-Star Brandon Ingram. And this season, they'll be getting a healthy (fingers crossed) Zion Williamson to add to the mix. 

Winfield notes that they can put together a package as compelling as any team, featuring an All-Star (which the Nets have been demanding) in Ingram, along with solid role players like Herbert Jones, Devonte Graham and Jose Alvarado. 

The Pels also still have plenty of draft picks remaining from their big trades of the last few years with the Los Angeles Lakers (Anthony Davis) and Milwaukee Bucks (Jrue Holiday). 

In addition to an All-Star, the Nets are looking for other solid rotation players and plenty of significant draft assets. 

Winfield says "the Pelicans... are one of few teams who could gut their depth to acquire Durant and still have the infrastructure needed to compete for a deep playoff run."

Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports