Grizzlies fans jokingly tried recruiting Kevin Durant to Memphis

Mar 23, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball as Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) defends during the first half at FedExForum. (Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports)
Mar 23, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball as Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) defends during the first half at FedExForum. (Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports)

Earlier this week, the Memphis Grizzlies played host to Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets. Before the two teams went on to make history in the matchup, some fans kept their focus on more long-term plans.

Over the summer, the Kevin Durant saga was the biggest story in basketball. Following the Nets getting swept in the first round by the Boston Celtics, the two-time Finals MVP requested a change of scenery.

Given that he is a Hall of Fame talent that is under contract long term, most NBA front offices made a call regarding Durant. One of the many teams to be linked to the situation was the Grizzlies. However, in the end, KD decided to happily return to Brooklyn.

While Durant was warming up in Memphis on Monday, some fans did their best to show their appreciation. More importantly, they did what they could to try and get him to come to the Grizzlies. After continuous shouting at him, the former MVP eventually looked in their direction and flashed a quick smile before getting back to putting shots up.

Does a Kevin Durant trade make sense for the Memphis Grizzlies at this point in time?

Like a majority of the league, the Grizzlies did the right thing by doing their due diligence regarding Durant. At this point in his career, he is still capable of turning any team he is on into a title contender. Question is, does a deal of this magnitude make sense for Memphis right now?

Given how their roster is filled with youth, some might argue the team is still too green to make a run at a championship. That said, seeing what the Phoenix Suns did after acquiring Chris Paul is a prime example of making a leap when bringing in the right piece.

From a fit perspective, Ja Morant and KD would be a fearsome duo for opposing defenses. Durant’s ability to light it up on the perimeter is exactly what the Grizzlies star needs to open the floor. On top of that, they’d have a solid supporting cast filled with defense and shooting.

With all the assets they have at their disposal, Memphis should certainly be in the mix again if things go south in Brooklyn and KD has another change of heart.