As was the case with LeBron James just a few short years ago, the entire NBA is waiting with bated breath for Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant to hit free agency this offseason. Though it is only the start of May and Durant won't officially become available until July 1, teams are already starting to position themselves to make a run at the former MVP.
Of all the interested parties (which is any team with cap space), the Golden State Warriors have been considered the most intriguing landing spot for obvious reasons. However, perhaps it is Durant's current opponents, the San Antonio Spurs, that could emerge as the favorite destination.
We still don't know if Durant is even planning to leave OKC. At the very least, we should see how these playoffs turn out for the Thunder before making any grand declarations. But it sounds as if the Spurs will be in the bidding for Durant's services come summer time.
"The stately Spurs, league sources say, are just as intrigued as Golden State by the thought of making a run at Durant come July 1," a recent report claimed.
Another report stated that in advance of San Antonio's series against OKC, the Spurs were "quietly discussing what kind of cap gymnastics it would take to get into the Durant derby."
San Antonio no longer relies solely on the long-held draft and develop strategy. Elite players around the league have taken notice of their sustained excellence, as evidenced by LaMarcus Aldrige's signing in free agency last year.
A second-round defeat at the hands of the Spurs may be enough to push Durant out the door in OKC as the 27-year-old continues to seek that elusive first championship. Durant is thought to be exploring which situation gives him the best shot at a ring next year.
There's also a theory making the rounds that should OKC defeat the 67-win Spurs this round, regardless of what happens in the Western Conference Finals (presumably against the Golden State Warriors), Durant would be convinced to a sign a two-year deal with the Thunder that includes a player option for Year 2. This would allow him another opportunity to chase a ring in OKC while also setting himself up to re-enter free agency and score a deal that could be as much as $40 million richer.
"That's probably one of the first times I've heard that one," Durant said. "I haven't thought about contracts or free agency or none of that stuff at all really...I haven't thought about that one. I guess I have to."
San Antonio and Oklahoma City are currently tied at 1-1.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
