A step toward ending the one-and-done rule?

Following the trade of Kyrie Irving by the Brooklyn Nets to the Dallas Mavericks, the future of Kevin Durant is the biggest question among NBA circles. Durant has yet to publicly weigh in on the trade of Irving, who arrived to the Nets in 2019 as a package deal. The Nets are believed to be hoping to maintain a supporting cast around Durant that can compete for a title.

Stephen A. Smith, however, reports that calls are being made about the availability of Durant via trade. The Boston Celtics were linked to a trade for Durant last offseason before the Nets pulled him from the market. Boston would almost certainly build a trade package around Jaylen Brown should a move be made between the teams.

“I’m hearing he’s on the verge of potentially being moved,” said Smith. Obviously, we’ve all been speculating about that, that he may be moved. They’re on the phone. I’m hearing Boston is making some calls. Keep your eye on that. Jaylen Brown. Keep your eye on that.”

Durant is signed through the 25-26 season, while Brown can be a free agent in 2024 and the Celtics are unable to extend him unless he makes an All-NBA team.