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Report: Nets wouldn't consider Kevin Durant trade with Raptors without Scottie Barnes

It's been over two weeks since Kevin Durant shocked the basketball world by requesting a trade away from the Brooklyn Nets.

The Nets haven't been able to find a suitable package in return for the 12-time All-Star, with rumours and speculation quieting in recent days. Despite the slowdown, Brooklyn is still shopping Durant and aiming as high as ever, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

When it comes to a possible trade with the Raptors, the Nets wouldn't even consider a deal unless it included reigning Rookie of the Year winner Scottie Barnes, says Wojnarowski. Toronto has no intention of moving the budding star, with a Barnes trade reportedly considered a "non-starter" last week.

The Nets want Scottie Barnes, left, included in any potential trade package for Kevin Durant. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The Nets want Scottie Barnes, left, included in any potential trade package for Kevin Durant. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

It's understandable why both sides are sticking to their guns. Durant is one of the greatest NBA players of all-time and has four years remaining on his contract. Any team that acquires the 33-year-old would instantly become a contender, so the Nets should rightfully be seeking as big a haul as possible in return.

The Raptors are reluctant to give up Barnes because the 20-year-old has sky-high potential on both sides of the ball and figures to be a franchise cornerstone for much longer than the four seasons Durant would be under contract.

Even without Barnes, Toronto still has plenty of assets to make an intriguing offer to Brooklyn. Some combination of Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Gary Trent Jr. and OG Anunoby — plus draft picks — could eventually entice the Nets if this saga continues to drag on and Durant reiterates his stance that he wants out.

In addition to the Raptors, Wojnarowski mentioned the Miami Heat as a "very motivated" suitor, but a deal would be complex and would likely have to involve multiple teams. The Phoenix Suns, who were originally named as Durant's preferred destination, are more limited with their options following the Deandre Ayton signing.

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