Nearly five years have passed since Kevin Durant departed from the Warriors, and key figures within the organization have frequently discussed the potential of his return.

“Absolutely,” stated Stephen Curry two years ago.

“My thought was, you can’t help but consider it,” remarked Draymond Green a few months later.

Golden State CEO Joe Lacob has consistently expressed his confusion over Durant’s decision to depart via sign-and-trade with the Brooklyn Nets in July 2019. In 2024, the notion of Durant rejoining the Warriors remains enticing. Despite his advancing age, Durant continues to perform at an All-Star level, and the Golden State front office is entering an offseason focused on constructing a championship-caliber roster for the next season.

The prospect of reuniting with Durant may be at its peak currently, as reports indicate the 35-year-old forward is dissatisfied with his role with the Phoenix Suns. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, citing sources, Durant’s season concluded in disappointment with the Minnesota Timberwolves sweeping the Suns out of the NBA playoffs.

For Durant, the recent playoff exit marks a continuation of competitive disappointment in contrast to his successful tenure with the Warriors. The Suns, a team assembled at significant expense by their new owner Mat Ishbia, were built to win immediately.

Similarly, Durant’s previous team, the Nets, also boasted a high-priced roster and entered the 2021-22 season as favorites. However, they fell short with a 44-38 record and a first-round playoff sweep by the Boston Celtics, who ultimately faced and lost to the Warriors in the Finals.

Despite these setbacks, Durant’s last five years have not been devoid of achievements. He made a remarkable recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered during the 2019 NBA Finals, returning to All-Star form.

However, despite playing for two competitive teams, Durant’s search for happiness and stability continues. After a disappointing stint in Brooklyn, marked by failed experiments with Kyrie Irving, Durant sought a change. While Phoenix initially seemed promising, reports suggest he may be uncomfortable with his role there.

Despite his success elsewhere, Durant maintains he does not dwell on regrets, emphasizing that his career journey has unfolded as it should. However, the Warriors hope he occasionally reflects fondly on their time together and may consider a return.

Bringing Durant back to Golden State would require significant roster adjustments and approval from all parties involved. However, given the urgency to maximize Stephen Curry’s championship window, the Warriors may pursue such a move.

Durant and Curry will reunite on Team USA in July, providing an opportunity for discussion and reflection. Warriors owner Joe Lacob, already planning to retire Durant’s number, may be open to facilitating his return.

A reunion between Durant and the Warriors may not be as far-fetched as it appears, potentially more feasible than other speculated moves, such as acquiring LeBron James.