NBA News Roundup, Thursday, April 18th: Lakers suffer Anthony Davis setback, Kevin Durant to exit Golden State, and more

The 2019 playoffs are now in full swing, although there are a number of other stories emerging from around the NBA. Already eliminated teams are planning for busy offseasons, while a number of the league's biggest stars are also mulling over impending free agencies. So, here are the biggest NBA stories you need to know for April 18th.

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Anthony Davis to remain in New Orleans?

The Pelicans appear committed to keeping AD

After spending three years as the Cleveland Cavaliers' general manager, David Griffin was hired by the New Orleans Pelicans on April 12. Following his appointment as New Orleans' president of basketball operations, Griffin was introduced to the media yesterday, and the former Cavs GM immediately addressed the future of wantaway superstar Anthony Davis:

Griffin says he believes AD is open to staying after discussions with Rich Paul. But he would prefer to establish if Davis is all-in or all-out on being with the Pelicans.

He hasn't talked to Anthony Davis yet but plans to in the future. He has spoken to Jrue Holiday and a few other players

Davis has spent his entire career with the Pelicans since being drafted by the team as the number one pick back in 2012. During his time in New Orleans, Davis has established himself as one of the NBA's most dominant player's, however, he has been to the playoffs just twice, and the Pelicans this season finished 13th in the West with a 33–49 record.

The 26-year-old requested a trade ahead of the February trade deadline, although after engaging in talks with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Pelicans refused to trade away their star asset. This left Davis on the sidelines for much of the second half of the season, but the Pelicans must now make a decision as Davis will become a free agent in July 2020.

Kevin Durant is unlikely to re-sign with the Golden State Warriors

Kevin Durant's days with the Golden State Warriors look to coming to an end

The Golden State Warriors are currently focused on securing a third consecutive NBA title, although Kevin Durant's future continues to be a major concern. Durant has yet to commit himself to the franchise, and the 30-year-old has continually stated his desire to lead his own team.

Due to this, Tim Kawakami of The Athletic is reporting that few around the league see KD remaining in Golden State this summer:

Most people in the NBA don’t expect (Kevin) Durant to re-sign with the Warriors no matter what happens in the playoffs.

Following his departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2016, Durant joined the Warriors. He has won back-to-back championships with Steve Kerr's team, while also twice being named Finals MVP. Over the course of the 18/19 season, Durant averaged 26 points, 6.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game.

Brandon Clarke declares for the NBA draft

Gonzaga forward Brandon Clarke has declared for the upcoming 2019 NBA draft

Following a successful season with Gonzaga, Brandon Clarke has declared himself for the upcoming NBA draft. The 22-year-old finished the year averaging 16.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game and Clarke announced his decision on Twitter:

These have been the best two years of my life. I will always be proud to be a Zag. With the support from our coaching staff and my family, I have decided to chase my dream of playing in the NBA.

Despite spending just one year at Gonzaga, Clarke set a school record for blocks in a single season (117). Clarke also recorded the highest field goal shooting percentage (68.7). Many projections have Clarke as a top 15 pick, and he joins Gonzaga forward Rui Hachimura who also declared for the draft earlier this week.