While Kevin Durant has yet to know anything but success in his two-year run with the Golden State Warriors, the air around the organization is vastly different going into this 2018-19 season, as some won't be surprised if he chooses to continue his run in The Bay, but others won't be surprised if he leaves.
Longtime columnist Marcus Thompson II of The Athletic, who has followed the team since the early 2000s, noted the feeling has been quite similar.
“I’ve talked to people in the franchise about this. Not for this piece but just through various conversations. Some I’ve sought out, some have sought out me. All of them have the same kind of undercurrent: we hope he stays, but wouldn’t be surprised if he leaves.”
The major reason for this uncertainty is because Durant hasn't committed to a greater purpose besides his self-betterment as a player — as that is the only thing that has remained consistent since he signed with Golden State in 2016.
It's unknown if Durant is willing to go until the wheels fall off and collect as many championships as possible, or if he's a threepeat-and-out away, or if he'd be willing to come back if the Warriors were to fall short of it.
Whatever the challenge is for Durant, most around the organization don't know it — and there is a strong feeling he doesn't know it either.
The Warriors will have to play a tactful game, as the amounts doled out to Klay Thompson and Draymond Green and the possible addition of new talent will all hinge on Durant's decision to stay or go.
The two-time Finals MVP has yet to commit past a one-and-one deal with the Warriors, following the same blueprint that LeBron James left from his second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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