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3 teams who could beat Raptors’ best offer for Kevin Durant

By Mike Luciano

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)
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) /
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Toronto Raptors, OG Anunoby
TORONTO, ON – JANUARY 09: OG Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles against Herbert Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /

2. New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans theoretically have enough to make an excellent offer for Durant without giving up Zion Williamson. While playing in a small market like New Orleans might not appeal to Durant, but the guy who made the bulk of his legacy in Oklahoma City might be able to get down with Louisiana if he thinks he can win.

The Pelicans have Brandon Ingram ready to send away, and CJ McCollum could be a player that Brooklyn asks for, given his history of scoring in this league. With Jonas Valanciunas a quality starting center in this league and Herb Jones coming into his own, the Pelicans have a surprisingly deep roster.

Toronto Raptors: The Pelicans really want Kevin Durant

With more draft picks than most Durant suitors, thanks to the Anthony Davis trade, New Orleans (who is coached by a former Golden State assistant in Willie Green) might have more ammunition to appease Brooklyn. The Nets have leverage in that they can send Durant to whoever pays the most.

If Zion is healthy and can play at a level approximating his All-Star form that he showed a year ago, he should be able to team with Durant to make some noise in the West. If Barnes or a player like Fred VanVleet are not on the table, the Pelicans (who are interested in making a move) could make the most shocking trade we have ever seen.