Kevin Durant’s narrative shifted when he left the Oklahoma City Thunder to play for the Golden State Warriors in 2016. When a fan proposed that he return to his origins and win a championship for that organization, the All-Star forward responded in tremendous fashion.
Durant began his NBA career as the Seattle Supersonics’ second overall pick in the 2007 draft. During his debut season, he averaged 20.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, garnering debut of the Year honors.
The following season, the organization was renamed the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Durant played with Russell Westbrook and James Harden. In 2012, the trio advanced to the NBA Finals but came short of winning the championship against LeBron James and the Miami Heat.
Durant later drew criticism for his decision to join the Golden State Warriors, which was viewed as a poor choice. However, he went on to win two championships with Stephen Curry and the Warriors. Durant joined the Brooklyn Nets in 2019 before orchestrating a trade to the Phoenix Suns, where he formed an excellent trio with Devin Booker and Bradley Beal.
Despite high hopes, the Kevin Durant-led Suns failed to win a top-three Western Conference place during the regular season, placing sixth with a 49-33 record. Their offense ranked ninth, their defense ranked 13th, and their bench proved to be a liability.
These characteristics were evident in the Suns’ first-round series against Anthony Edwards’ Minnesota Timberwolves, as they suffered with bad shooting, turnovers, and fewer offensive rebounds than their opponents. As a result, they were eliminated from the playoffs earlier than expected.
All-Star Forward. Kevin Durant Responds Epically To Fan’s Oklahoma City Thunder Request
After three seasons of dismal exits, some fans believe that the only way Durant can preserve his career is to return and help Oklahoma City win a title. The two-time NBA champion responded to one idea via Instagram.
Durant currently has two years left on his contract with the Suns. However, owing to the nature of their roster, Phoenix’s head office can only deal him or Booker to significantly add quality players or amass draft picks because Beal has a no-trade clause.
It remains to be seen whether Durant can make it to Oklahoma City or stay in Phoenix for the foreseeable future. In any event, all eyes will be on the former MVP to see whether he can make a significant comeback next season.
