Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant has opted out of his $31.5 million player-option for the 2019-20 season, becoming an unrestricted free agent, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

This was a much expected move and one that will come with his impending decision. Durant and his business manager Rich Kleiman are currently in New York after the star underwent surgery to repair a torn Achilles, now evaluating his free agency options.

According to Wojnarowski, that process has so far stayed private between the two partners.

The Brooklyn Nets are considered among the frontrunners to sign Durant after setting eyes on close friend Kyrie Irving this offseason.

The New York Knicks, who were at the forefront of the race during the entire NBA season, have not made much noise, worried that the inter-borough competition could steal away their most awaited potential asset.

The L.A. Clippers are outsiders in the KD sweepstakes, but very much invested in the possibility of adding him, while the Los Angeles Lakers are very unlikely to garner any interest from Durant, as he has shown no inclination to consider them in free agency.

The Warriors can offer the most money out of any team, able to offer a hefty five-year, $221 million max contract, which won't come short of luxury tax implications for the next half decade.

If Durant re-signs with Golden State, he could potentially make $50 million by age 35, a type of financial security no other team can offer, which could be extremely valuable given his fragile state with a potential career-altering Achilles injury.