2. Getting a third team involved
The longer this takes to play out, the likelihood a third (or even a fourth) team gets involved is increasing by the day. This is especially true because all free agency news has seemed to stall over the past 24 teams as teams look to take advantage of the situation surrounding both Durant and teammate Kyrie Irving.
Similar to how quality players like Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, and Victor Oladipo were moved around in last year’s enormous James Harden trade, expect a few other teams to get involved here. I think the Raptors are a team to watch here, as they could look to finally end their search for a starting-caliber center.
Toronto is reportedly showing “optimism” about their chances at putting together a package for KD, but even if they don’t get KD I still think there’s room for the Raptors to be involved in the final developed trade.
Much of the core of the last trade stays the same here, but the Nets are instead able to acquire OG Anunoby instead of Lonzo Ball. If OG is someone Brooklyn values higher, then it’s possible that the Chicago Bulls are able to save out on some draft capital in the end and could hopefully retain their 2029 pick.
Toronto is one of the few teams that’s perfectly built to compensate for Vucevic’s lackluster defense. Considering the Raptors’ lack of size had them ranked 22nd in adjusted rebound chance, Vooch would greatly enhance their interior presence. This move would also allow the Raptors to commit to developing Scottie Barnes by permanently sliding him into the starting lineup at the 3.
This collection of cost-controlled young assets would make a great return for the Nets, especially since it’s nearly impossible to recoup exact value when trading a superstar away. By getting the Raptors included in this deal, Brooklyn can receive a better package than any one team would be able to offer.