The Golden State Warriors are seven wins away from their third consecutive NBA title. They are playing tremendous basketball with two-time reigning Finals MVP Kevin Durant sidelined to injury.
It’s led to some ridiculous opinions that these Warriors are better off without Durant. His status as an impending free agent has only added to that.
But according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, re-signing Durant remains the Warriors’ top priority this summer.
“The team’s front office and ownership had made it known that re-signing Durant is the highest priority,” Windhorst reported. “Durant’s choice to pass up a max contract offer and leave his options open with a one-year deal has generated a measure of stress throughout the season.”
Color us absolutely shocked. Golden State wants to retain the planet’s best player. While Durant himself refused to talk about free agency, a multitude of reports have come out indicating that he’s about to bolt from Northern California.
The issue for potential suitors is three-fold.
- Golden State’s success is undeniable. A third straight title would make it hard for Durant to leave.
- The Warriors are moving into a brand new waterfront arena in San Francisco. KD has talked a lot about how much he looks forward to playing there.
- Golden State can offer Durant much more money than any other team.
Does this mean Durant is staying? No.
What we do know is that the Warriors’ brass has usually gotten everything its wanted during this dynasty.
The other rather interesting thing here is the futures of two other stars in Northern California.
- Klay Thompson is slated to become a free agent. He’s noted multiple times that he’d love to retire a member of the Warriors. There’s also reports of discord between Klay and the Warriors.
- Draymond Green will become a free agent following the 2019-20 season. Will he want a new deal this summer?
Either way, things are about to get really interesting around Warriors land here in about six weeks.