Fred VanVleet claims he would turn down a Kevin Durant trade if Scottie Barnes is involved: “I told you, I’m a loyal guy, man”
Toronto Raptors star Fred VanVleet addressed some past trade rumors involving Kevin Durant and teammate Scottie Barnes. Considering the two were linked in trade talks for the longest time in the offseason, VanVleet offered his input on a potential trade.
The Kevin Durant trade saga was probably the pivotal storyline of the offseason. After turning the NBA upside down by demanding a trade shortly after the free agency period opened, the Nets fetched several inquiries regarding his value.
While Durant had already mentioned his preferred destinations, the superstar garnered attention from some other teams as well. The Toronto Raptors emerged as a potential landing spot.
The talks between the Raptors and Durant were interesting. While Toronto appeared to be willing to engage in negotiations, they were particularly hesitant about moving Scottie Barnes.
Considering Brooklyn's repeated inquiries regarding Barnes, the Raptors and Nets eventually closed all trade discussions. As things would have it, Durant would also remain with Brooklyn at the start of the season.
The link between Durant and Barnes garnered a lot of attention in the offseason. However, Raptors All-Star Fred VanVleet recently offered his input on the matter.
When discussing the potential trade scenario on "How hungry are you?" with Serge Ibaka, VanVleet was asked about making the trade. VanVleet responded with:
(from 3:10-3:15)
"I wouldn’t do it. I told you, I'm a loyal guy, man. I'm not a trading guy, I wouldn't do it."
When Ibaka inquired further, VanVleet simply nodded in agreement. Ibaka was shocked by the guard's response, to say the least.
Keeping VanVleet's response in mind, it is safe to say that the star guard holds the youngster in high regard. On that note, it is also important to consider the Nets' pursuit of Barnes in trade negotiations.
At only 21 years old, Scottie Barnes has shown immense potential for development. Having displayed flashes of being a superstar in the future, the Raptors will hope to retain the youngster and nurture him.
However, Toronto appears to be in a bit of an odd patch at this point in the season. Ranked sixth in the East with a 11-9 record, Toronto isn't in the most consistent shape.
Comparing Kevin Durant and Scottie Barnes' seasons thus far
Fred VanVleet displayed immense loyalty when considering potential trade talks involving Scottie Barnes and Kevin Durant.
While mentioning that he wouldn't pull the trigger on the trade, VanVleet also displayed faith in Barnes' ability as a player. However, it raises the need to compare the two forwards and their ability to contribute.
Barnes won the ROTY award last season for his tremendous performances for the Raptors. While he ended last season on a solid note, he hasn't been as solid in his sophomore year.
With an average of 14.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, Barnes has seen a tangible drop in output. However, this could also be attributed to relatively fewer minutes played and an emphasis on sharing the ball more.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant continues to stun and wow NBA fans with his displays of offensive prowess. With an average of 29.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, Durant dominates the stat sheet for the Nets.
On paper, Durant has Barnes beaten in almost every category. However, the comparison also has to consider aspects such as roles and experience. With Durant being his team's number one option, Barnes has a lot of ground to cover as he often plays second and third fiddle.
Additionally, while Kevin Durant has been dominant, the Brooklyn Nets rank ninth in the East at the moment.
Continuing their steady rise up the Eastern Conference ladder behind a two-game winning streak, Durant will hope to lead the Nets to a more fruitful campaign this season.
Related: Kevin Garnett worries for Kevin Durant's playstyle at Brooklyn Nets: "He’s in there having to take that punishment and his body is not built for that"