Report: Mikal Bridges could be pivotal for Knicks in pursuit of Suns star Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant has emerged as a top target for NBA teams this upcoming offseason, according to various reports. After an unsuccessful stint with the Phoenix Suns this past season, Durant is expected to leave the franchise. Among the prospective destinations are the New York Knicks, contingent upon developments involving Mikal Bridges.

Bridges, a standout player for the Knicks this season, was pivotal to their success. His future decisions are reportedly integral to the Knicks’ interest in pursuing Durant. With a strong season under their belt, the Knicks are keen to strategically assemble a roster aimed at securing an NBA championship next season.

Following the Suns‘ playoff exit, speculation regarding Durant’s departure intensified. Reports have become more concrete, notably from Evan Sidery of Forbes, who suggests that Bridges could negotiate a contract extension with the Knicks.

“Mikal Bridges becomes eligible for a four-year, $156 million extension this offseason. Unless Bridges agrees to a discount, the Knicks might consider trading him for a star player,” Sidery reported on his X account. Bridges could potentially join another team if he seeks to extend his contract at that price point.

How Bridges’ contract extension could pave the way for Durant

According to Sidery, the Knicks have a potential path to acquire Durant, contingent on Mikal Bridges opting to extend his contract without taking a salary discount. Securing a top-tier talent remains a primary objective for New York, and the team could contemplate a strategy involving trading Bridges to bring Durant into the fold.

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“A potential re-trade of Bridges, along with the necessary salaries, to the Suns for Kevin Durant is an idea being floated,” Sidery noted on his X account. Fans are eagerly awaiting further developments on this potential trade scenario, envisioning Durant donning a Knicks jersey.

Rumors swirl around Durant’s next destination

With speculation mounting about Durant’s departure from Phoenix, there are three prominent suitors, aside from the Knicks. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Golden State Warriors represent one possible destination. Durant has a storied history with the Warriors, having won two championships during his previous tenure with the franchise.

Additionally, there are whispers of Durant’s interest in the San Antonio Spurs, a team striving to recover from an early playoff exit this season. Finally, the Houston Rockets are reportedly seeking a resurgence following their inability to advance past the Western Conference semifinals, making them another potential contender for Durant’s services.