Report: Grizzlies exploring possible Durant trade

The Memphis Grizzlies have made inquiries to the Brooklyn Nets regarding superstar Kevin Durant, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Memphis doesn't appear willing to include young big man Jaren Jackson Jr. or sharpshooter Desmond Bane in a trade proposal for Durant, sources told Charania. The Grizzlies would rather build the offer around their collection of five first-round picks, which include four unprotected and a 2024 protected Golden State Warriors selection.

The Grizzlies have other young players who could be included in a trade package for the former MVP, including 2021 No. 10 pick Ziaire Williams, Brandon Clarke, and 2022 draft selections Jake LaRavia, David Roddy, and Kennedy Chandler.

Since Durant requested a trade, Brooklyn traded for wing Royce O'Neal, re-signed guard Patty Mills and big man Nic Claxton, and added T.J. Warren in free agency. The Nets are expecting the full return of former Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons and sharpshooter Joe Harris. All-Star guard Kyrie Irving exercised his $37-million player option and the Nets plan to keep him, Charania reports.

Simmons is on track to be cleared for five-on-five practices after undergoing back surgery in May, Charania adds.

The Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors, and Miami Heat remain the biggest threats to land Durant. Other teams have made trade proposals, including the Atlanta Hawks who offered John Collins, De'Andre Hunter, and a draft pick to the Nets, Charania reports.

Memphis tied its franchise record for wins with 56 this past season, eventually falling in the second round of the playoffs to the eventual champion Warriors. The club signed star guard Ja Morant to a five-year, $193-million extension and also retained Tyus Jones and John Konchar on multi-year deals.