The New York Knicks are expected to become one of the most aggressive Kevin Durant suitors this summer. However, Durant's Oklahoma City Thunder teammates remain optimistic the superstar forward will stay despite failing to reach the NBA Finals this season.
Durant, who failed to win a title in his first nine seasons in the league, will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Previous NBA free agents rumors indicated the 27-year-old superstar will likely sign with a team, where he could get the best chance of ending his title drought.
According to ESPN, the Knicks are not expected to be on top of Durant's list when the free agency period begins in July. The Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, and the Thunder are considered favorites to land Durant because of their chances of winning a championship next season.
However, the report also noted that Knicks could be a dark horse in the race. Durant reportedly told his friends he is intrigued of Knicks rookie Kristaps Porzingis, who averaged 14.3 points on top of 14.3 rebounds and 1.9 blocks in his first season in the league. Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony could also be a factor in New York's pursuit of Durant.
The Knicks are expected to offer a maximum deal with a starting salary of $25 million for the 2016-17 NBA season. But the Thunder will be the only team who can offer a five-year maximum contract.
In another report of ESPN, Durant's Thunder teammates believe the former NBA Most Valuable Player will eventually decide to stay in Oklahoma. Thunder forward Serge Ibaka said he does not see Durant moving elsewhere after almost beating the Warriors in the Western Conference finals.
"Where he going to go? Tell me," Ibaka said. "After what we did in the playoffs this year, where?"
Veteran forward Nick Collison, who has played with Durant for nine seasons, admitted they are anxious about the upcoming free agency. But the 35-year-old said he knows Durant is aware how important he is to their team and the community.
Thunder superstar point guard Russell Westbrook is also not worried of Durant's impending free agency. However, the All-Star playmaker said that he will also understand and remain friends with Durant in the event his longtime teammate decides to bolt out of Oklahoma City.
Watch the video below, discussing Durant's possible destination.