In order to acquire Kevin Durant in the biggest story in this year’s free agency, the Golden State Warriors had to find a new home for their Australian big man, Andrew Bogut.
It’s not often than players under contract are given a choice of where they would like to be traded to, but Bogut was actually presented with that situation.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Golden State told Bogut to choose between being traded to the Dallas Mavericks or the Houston Rockets. The chance that the Warriors gave the physical center speaks volumes for the hard work that he put in during his four-year stint with the franchise.
The Philadelphia 76ers expressed interest in the 31-year old, but ultimately the only teams Bogut considered were the two Texas-based franchises.
Bogut, who played an integral part in the Warriors team that won the championship in 2015, chose to join Dirk Nowitzki’s Mavs. Dallas benefited further from Durant’s signing, as they were able to sign Bogut’s teammate Harrison Barnes to a max contract.
Dallas is a more appropriate fit for Bogut at this stage of his career. Unlike Houston, the Mavericks can offer Bogut more of a significant role due to their lacking depth at the center position.
It may also be possible that Bogut simply wanted to play in a more stable situation. Rick Carlisle is a highly respected coach and Mark Cuban creates a comfortable atmosphere for his players.
Warriors fans will be incredibly excited going into next season with Durant in their lineup, but they will miss the bruiser from down under.
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