Kevin Durant has declined his player-option, intends to re-sign with the Warriors, and it will save the team some cash according to Chris Haynes of ESPN.com
The report indicates Durant will forgo the chance at a one-year, approximately $28 million max contract in order to help Golden State’s chances of re-signing Andre Iguodala. The Vertical reported on Monday that Iguodala is likely to listen to offers from other teams, where a contract offer could top $20 million per year.
Durant, fresh of an NBA Finals MVP, is still going to get his money eventually. This is from Haynes.
By Durant taking about $4 million less than his max next year and waiting to get his long-term extension for at least another season, the Warriors would be able to use their Bird rights on an Iguodala deal that is far more comparable to what he’d see on the open market.
Durant’s choice to delay his deal will allow the Warriors to give Steph Curry the “supermax” deal of $35.4 million a year, or roughly $205 million for the next five seasons.
Other free agents for the Warriors include Shaun Livingston, Zaza Pachulia, JaVale McGee, David West, Ian Clark, Matt Barnes and James Michael McAdoo. Bob Myers has a ton of work ahead of him.
This really isn’t breaking news. Durant has said all along his plan is to be a Warrior and help the team at any cost. Set to turn 29 in September, the next several seasons of Durant’s career are expected to be spent in the Bay Area.