NBA Rumors: Kevin Durant, Jamal Murray, Nuggets, Trey Murphy, Pelicans

Rockets

As the NBA Draft approaches, Kevin Durant remains one of the league’s biggest wild cards.

The Rockets star continues to be linked to a variety of teams, though there doesn’t appear to be much agreement around the NBA regarding where he might actually land. In fact, many around the league still believe Houston is the most likely place for him to begin next season.

That hasn’t stopped the speculation.

The Heat and Timberwolves have surfaced in various reports and rumors, while some league observers continue to wonder whether a reunion with the Warriors could ever become a realistic possibility.

According to a recent report from Heavy Sports, at least some executives believe a Durant trade remains in play.

One thing isn’t up for debate: Even at 37, Durant remains one of the NBA’s most dangerous scorers.

Nuggets

The Nuggets may be exploring ways to improve the roster around Nikola Jokic, but don’t expect Jamal Murray to be going anywhere.

While Murray’s name occasionally pops up in trade chatter, a recent report from Heavy Sports suggested Denver remains reluctant to move one of the central figures from its championship core.

“Stars are hard to find,” the report noted.

Murray remains under contract for three more seasons, and despite some injury concerns in recent years, the Nuggets continue to view him as a key piece of their title hopes.

League-wide, the expectation is that Denver is more likely to make smaller moves around the edges than pursue a blockbuster involving Murray.

Pelicans

Trey Murphy III continues to draw interest from around the NBA.

The Pelicans forward has emerged as one of the league’s most coveted young wings, and rival teams are expected to gauge his availability this offseason.

Whether New Orleans has any interest in moving him is another story.

The Pelicans were reluctant to entertain offers before the trade deadline, and any team hoping to pry Murphy away would likely face a steep asking price.

League executives continue to view him as the type of versatile two-way player every team wants but few can realistically acquire.