The 2019 draft is just weeks away and teams will be hoping to strike gold by drafting either Zion Williamson or Ja Morant. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis continues to be linked with a blockbuster trade, while a host of stars including Kyrie Irving, Kawhi Leonard, and Kemba Walker are about to hit free agency.

With plenty happening around the NBA, here’s a look at the biggest news stories and rumors you need to know for June 9th.

Clippers preparing for future without Kawhi Leonard

The L.A. Clippers have long been considered the favorites to sign Kawhi Leonard this summer. The 27-year-old is a Los Angeles native, and multiple reports have stated that he prefers the Clippers to the Lakers.

However, following Toronto’s Game 4 win, Joe Varden of The Athletic suggested that their hopes of landing Leonard were fading:

Leonard joined the Raptors from the San Antonio Spurs on an expiring deal last summer. While a risky move at the time, the All-Star’s arrival has put Toronto on the verge of a first NBA title. During four appearances in the Finals, Leonard has averaged 30.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.

Mike D’Antoni nearing Houston extension

Mike D’Antoni was appointed head coach of the Houston Rockets back in 2016, although reports have suggested that he could leave following another playoff exit to the Golden State Warriors.

However, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon is reporting that the 68-year-old is close to extending his tenure:

During his three seasons in Houston, D’Antoni has a 173-73 record. D’Antoni led his team to within one game of the NBA Finals last season but was most recently defeated in the conference semifinals by the Warriors.

Kevin Durant unlikely to return for Game 5

With a 3-1 series deficit to overturn, the Golden State Warriors are desperate to get back Kevin Durant back on the court. The 30-year-old has not played since Game 5 of the second-round series against the Houston Rockets, and ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has offered a worrying update for Warriors fans:

Game 5 will take place on Monday night at 9:00 p.m. ET.

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