Kevin Durant's Free Agency Developments for 2016-17 NBA Season: A Decision To Be Made In Next 24 Hours But No Hints from Star Forward - Report
Kevin Durant's Free Agency Decision Highly Anticipated
Kevin Durant is the biggest name in 2016's NBA free agency. He is probably as big as LeBron James was when he became a free agent back in 2014, when he returned to Cleveland. There are at least 6 teams to choose from when it comes to who is most likely to get Durant, but it's safe to say everyone wants a piece of the all-star franchise player.
Durant has met with 5 teams so far in a span of three days; Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Clippers. He will meet with the Miami Heat this Sunday.
With everyone anticipating Durant's decision, here are the latest developments to Kevin Durant's free agency status.
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1. Durant will decide within the next 24-36 hours
According to Chris Broussard, a senior writer for ESPN, Durant has let the teams that he's met with know that a decision will be made within the next 24 to 36 hours, or between Sunday night to Monday early morning. NBA team executives that have already met with Durant said he has not shown any hints about the team he will most likely go to.
2. Clippers impress Durant
The Clippers impressed Kevin Durant with their presentation, particularly in terms of where the Los Angeles team is heading and what their long term goals are. Having said that, the Clippers probably lowered their chances of getting Kevin Durant after signing Austin Rivers to a $35 million contract spanning 3 years.
3. Tom Brady runs into Celtics recruitment team
A picture showing NFL star Tom Brady at the Celtics pitch meeting with Kevin Durant has made the rounds, leaving an impression that Boston really wants him to be a local star the likes of Brady.
Al Horford joining the Celtics is also a factor, albeit not the only major one, that might lure Kevin Durant to play for the team. Horford gets a 4-year $113 million contract. With Horford in a roster that made 48 wins last season, Boston will surely be an Eastern Conference contender next season.
While inside NBA circles believe that Durant will likely stay with Oklahoma City for at least one more year, it seems that Boston is making the right moves to try to catch the biggest free agent this year.
4. Durant is Heat's biggest answer
Pat Riley needs to use his convincing powers to lure Durant out of Oklahoma City to play for Miami. That will solve all roster problems the team is currently facing.
Two starters have left Miami. Luol Deng agreed to a 4-year $72 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. Joe Johnson will play for Utah Jazz this upcoming season with a 2-year contract worth $22 million.
Miami is left with Goran Dragic, Hassan Whiteside, as the only guarantees to the team. Dwyane Wade will probably be back but he is arguably past his prime, although he played stellar during the playoffs. Chris Bosh's future is unclear.
