When an NBA superstar player’s trade request goes public, it creates something of a paradox.

The superstar wants to leave. We know this because he’s requested a trade. Yet, due to that trade request, his trade value has declined. After all, opposing teams know that his team has an incentive to move him.

In other words, by requesting a trade, a star makes it harder for them to be traded.

At the same time, what other choice does the star have? Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks was never going to wake up one morning and say “you know what? I think I’ll trade Kevin Durant”.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Miami Heat Most Determined Brooklyn Nets’ Kevin Durant Trade Suitor

When you’re a player of that caliber, you’re not moving unless you ask to be moved.

Kevin Durant has, and rival GMs know it. Here’s a deal that sends him to the Miami Heat.