Pros and Cons of Raptors going all-in for Kevin Durant trade

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TAMPA, FLORIDA – APRIL 27: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets looks on during the second half of a game against the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

Cons

Durant is still 34 years old, making him a significant injury risk. Off an Achilles injury and a leg ailment that sidelined him for large chunks of last year, the Raptors could easily end up swindled if they give up a player that is one awkward landing away from missing a chunk of the season.

Durant was allegedly key in getting Nash hired in place of Kenny Atkinson. Not only did he strongarm the Nets into trading for James Harden, but he contributed to the friction that preempted his 76ers trade. Why wouldn’t he turn on the Raptors if he was willing to turn on that team?

Kevin Durant has some risks for the Toronto Raptors.

The Nets may have been made aware of Durant’s discontent, but that doesn’t mean they’ll play ball with him. With so many years left on his contract, Brooklyn would be well within their rights to dare him to sit out. This could dissuade them from taking less just to move them.

While KD at his best could get the Raptors a ring, Durant at his least reliable would be such a debilitating move for Toronto that they would not only fizzle out in the postseason, but they would watch as a division rival directly benefitted. Durant’s famously thin legs will hold the weight of the entire franchise.