If Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and LeBron James can no longer carry a team to a championship on their own, does teaming up make sense? The reality is that each of these veterans has struggled to lead his squad deep into the playoffs in today’s NBA, where every player on the floor needs to handle the ball. A Durant-Curry-James partnership could solve that issue.
From a tactical standpoint, both Curry and James are effective off the ball, which would free up Durant to take on more primary ball-handling duties. The concern about having only one basketball evaporates when two of the three are willing to move without the rock. In this lineup, Curry would slot in at point guard, while James and Durant could switch between forward positions seamlessly. Add two defensive specialists around them, and the unit becomes nearly unstoppable in crunch time.
Financially, James is approaching free agency, while Curry and Durant each earn over $50 million per season. LeBron might have to accept a pay cut—something around $30 million would be reasonable given his skill set—and both Curry and Durant could reduce their salaries by about $10 million each to make the trio feasible. The total sacrifice would still leave them well compensated, and the potential for winning—and generating massive revenue—would be unmatched.
Having three superstars on one roster is nothing new. The last 20 years have been defined by big-three eras, and a Durant-Curry-James alliance would be a fitting swan song for that trend. It might not guarantee a championship, but it would guarantee maximum fan interest and media attention—something every franchise covets in today’s business-driven league.
The Golden State Warriors emerge as the most logical destination. The front office could clear salary cap space by moving Draymond Green and buying out or trading Jimmy Butler, then pursue Durant and James as free agents. A starting five of Curry, Durant, James, and two role players would be a ratings magnet. No team would turn down the chance to make that happen.
