Report: Grizzlies Re-Enter Kevin Durant Trade Pursuit After Moving Desmond Bane

According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, sources have revealed that the Memphis Grizzlies have officially re-entered the chase for Kevin Durant. The move comes shortly after Memphis traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, acquiring Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony in return.

This isn’t the first time the Grizzlies have pursued Durant — the franchise reportedly engaged in trade talks for the superstar back in February, but those negotiations ultimately fell through.

Key Asset: Durant’s Bird Rights

One critical detail for any team acquiring Durant via trade: they would inherit his Bird Rights, allowing them to exceed the salary cap to re-sign him when his current contract expires.

Grizzlies’ Roster Plans

Despite moving Bane, reports indicate the Grizzlies have no intention of entering a rebuild. The front office remains committed to building around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., and is reportedly working on a new contract extension for Jackson this offseason.

If successful in landing Durant, Memphis would immediately vault back into Western Conference contention, pairing the two-time Finals MVP with Morant and Jackson to form one of the most dynamic trios in the league.