Look, we all know KD isn't sitting out for the season. He isn't built like that. And he doesn't want to go somewhere that trades ALL their assets for him, because he wants to compete for a title.
I've thought all along that staying in Brooklyn was probably the most likely outcome. The thing is, if KD really wants a title, staying with the Nets is his best option anyway. People get hung up on the fact that they got swept, but those games were CLOSE.
Game 1: 115 - 114
Game 2: 114 - 107
Game 3: 109 - 103
Game 4: 116 - 112
That is 18 points total. Adding Ben Simmons, who has played at an all-NBA level, could easily overcome those 18 points - and now you are talking a Nets sweep. Kyrie also stunk it up in Game 3 and 4.
I wouldn't trade Kyrie either. They are only going to get pennies on the dollar for him. Run it back and try to win a title and turn this thing into a redemption story. Embrace being the most unlikeable team in the NBA. F it, be the villain.