There is also a strong possibility that Durant could return to Oklahoma City for at least one more season because of the additional money – approximately $40 million – he could make by becoming a free agent again next year.
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Before this weekend, a firm decision on where the four-time scoring champion will play next season is expected “sooner rather than later” after he meets with all five teams that secured invitations to the Hamptons for weekend sit-downs.
By all accounts, Kevin Durant is what one might call a “student of the game”, someone who appreciates the history of the game and has reverence for those who came before him to pave the way for the gigantic pay day he’s about to enjoy.
By luring Horford away from the Atlanta Hawks team that he’d played for since 2007, the Celtics have put themselves in about as good a position as possible to steal Durant away from the only pro franchise he has ever known.
There is a chance restricted free agent Festus Ezeli could get an offer the Warriors aren’t willing to match.
But with Durant, the Heat will gain a big man with point guard-like shooting potential.
A tweet showed Brady walking down a street with Danny Ainge and a host of Celtics front office members and current Celtics players Saturday afternoon on their way to pitch Durant to come to Boston. No decision has been made on whether that will take place, ESPN reported. Now they watch players from the end of benches sign for double digits a year.
To avoid seeking new free agents as everyone continues to receive massive pay days, it was the Clippers’ priority to bring back their own guys after missing out in the Durant sweepstakes. In the Western Conference, Durant has to overtake the Warriors, Spurs, Clippers and a much improved Portland Trailblazers team.
Both teams have made moves that would entice Kevin Durant. He is probably as big as LeBron James was when he became a free agent back in 2014, when he returned to Cleveland.
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-And, if the Warriors get a lower deal on Barnes (say, in the $18M-20M annual range), he’s even more trade-able next summer. or a better sign-and-trade value immediately.
