With his recent comments about seeking money, the Los Angeles Clippers are in a great spot to sign Kevin Durant next summer.
Kevin Durant may be in the midst of yet another title run with the Golden State Warriors, but that hasn’t stopped him nor media from speculating on where he will end up next summer when he hits free agency. The LA Clippers have just as good as a shot as anyone to land the superstar.
Durant recently told The Athletic that for once he is going to worry about getting paid.
"“I am thinking about the money I’m going to get. I never got the [massive] deal. I’ve just seen a bunch of dudes around the league making so much money—and I’m happy for them. But I know I deserve that too. That’s the only thing I’m probably thinking about, to be honest.”"
This bodes well for the Clippers as they potentially have two max-contract spots available this summer to offer to players such as Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler. If money is what Durant’s main focus is, several teams can give him the max, but only a couple can also possibly provide him with the chance to win.
The New York Knicks are thought to be a potential suitor, but history shows that they aren’t a contender. David Fizdale may have them on the right track and Kristaps Porzingis and Kevin Knox have potential to build around.
The Los Angeles Lakers can offer Durant a max contract and do have the allure of playing next to LeBron James, but many believe Durant wants to prove his legitimacy.
Enter the LA Clippers. The team has already proved they have a roster full of great guys (although, some may have to leave to make space) and would give Durant the draw of playing in Los Angeles while not teaming up with LeBron.
Jerry West already recruited Durant once when he was with the Warriors front office, so his relationship could be important to bringing him to LA. The Logo has had a hand in constructing the current roster and his end-game has not yet been revealed. Durant may be that ultimate goal.
The Clippers hit all the check marks on paper, but with Durant having so many options, nothing is guaranteed. Still, the Clips have positioned themselves to have a legitimate shot at landing him next summer as they work to win their first title.