Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Kevin Durant is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Speculation surrounding what the future holds for him has run rampant over the last year and beyond, with a handful of teams hoarding salary cap space just for the opportunity to get a meeting with him in free agency this summer. Will he stick with the Thunder? Will an early playoff exit lead to his departure in free agency?
Whatever Durant ultimately decides, it will have a far-reaching impact on the rest of the NBA. With such a momentous decision looming over his head, it would be understandable if he sought out advice from his No. 1 fan: his mother. But, apparently, Wanda Pratt is as in the dark as the rest of us when it comes to her son's playing future.
"I don't know what his ultimate decision will be," Pratt said in a recent interview.
Durant has always maintained his love for Oklahoma City and the Thunder organization. With one Finals appearance and several deep runs in the playoffs under his belt, he can't argue that he hasn't enjoyed success with the team. The Thunder are hoping they can re-sign the 27-year-old, but they'll have to compete with almost half the teams in the NBA.
"Where he's going to end [up] playing has still not been decided by him," Pratt answered when asked if Durant would consider signing with his hometown Washington Wizards. "He's still playing in the playoffs as everyone knows. I don't know [his plans], so don't say Mama Durant said [he's coming to Washington] because I didn't say that. He's focused on the playoffs right now and he's pretty loyal to the Thunder with regards to that. When the time comes, he'll make a decision [that's] best for him."
Durant averaged 28.2 points per game with 5.0 assists and 8.2 rebounds this season. He and the Thunder are tied 1-1 against the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the NBA playoffs. The next game between the two teams will be held tonight.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby.
