NBA Trade Deadline Drama: Kuzma-Middleton Trade, as Warriors Chase Durant

As we get closer to the NBA trade deadline, rumors, trades, and speculation will continue non-stop until 3 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, when the deadline officially arrives. This morning, an early trade sent Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma.

A move that Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly supported, every team is looking to gain an edge over conference rivals ahead of the All-Star break as we head into the second half of the season.

After the blockbuster trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis, reports have surfaced that some teams were frustrated they didn’t get the chance to bid for Doncic’s services. As a result, several General Managers are scrambling to pull off a power move that could elevate their franchises.

Among them is Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob, who has been aggressively pursuing a major trade. One of the biggest rumors over the past 48 hours is a possible Kevin Durant reunion with Golden State. While not out of the realm of possibility, this scenario could also open the door for a three-team trade involving the Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat, with the Suns potentially acquiring Jimmy Butler.

However, NBA insiders Shams Charania and Marc Stein have both reported that Durant has no interest in reuniting with Golden State. One of the key reasons he left in the first place was his desire to no longer play alongside Draymond Green.

Green has also been mentioned in trade discussions, and it’s not out of the question that he could be leaving the Bay Area this week as well. According to NBA insider Chris B. Haynes, the Warriors are also hesitant to bring in a disgruntled star who could disrupt the chemistry alongside Steph Curry.

With fewer options and time running out, the Warriors are scrambling to find a trade that makes sense. With just 24 hours until the deadline, NBA fans are hoping for some major surprises before time runs out.