Kevin Durant and the Golden State Warriors will look to finally eliminate the pesky Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on Friday night, as the Warriors' quest for a third straight NBA title continues. And while the Warriors deal with that, New York Knicks fans on the other side of the country will continue to monitor any inkling of information regarding Durant's free agency this Summer.
The latest KD-to-NYK news comes from ESPN's Ian Begley, who reports, "several of his current teammates have told friends that they think it's going to happen." A recent poll conducted by The Athletic found that a majority of players (63.3%) asked about KD's future believe the same.
"It's easier to find street parking in Manhattan than it is to find an NBA executive, player or coach who doesn't think Durant is going to sign with the Knicks in July."
"Some of Durant's former teammates think it's going to happen, per ESPN sources. Several of his current teammates have told friends that they think it's going to happen, sources said. Opposing agents believe it's a fait accompli: "Just a matter of putting pen to paper," is how one agent of another top free agent in the 2019 free agent class put it."
The Knicks finished with an NBA-worst 17-65 record this season, but they are no more likely to secure the #1 overall pick than the second and third worst teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns. All three teams have a 14% chance of landing Zion Williamson in the June NBA Draft, though the Knicks can fall no further than fifth due to their record.
In addition to owning one of the top picks, the Knicks also have a ton of cap space to sign Durant, as well as another free agent, such as Kyrie Irving. Durant insists he hasn't made up his mind, but rumors maintain that the duo are hoping to team up together this off-season.
If KD's teammates are right, that could mean both All Stars will be donning orange and blue next season.
