Kevin Durant's Potential Return to Washington DC: An Analysis of the NBA Landscape

The NBA landscape is always evolving, especially when it comes to the free agency period. One of the most intriguing discussions currently surrounds whether Kevin Durant (KD) will return to his hometown city, Washington DC, to join the Washington Wizards in the 2019 free agency. However, recent analysis suggests that this scenario is unlikely. Let's dive into the reasons behind this.

The Current Broody Context of the Basketball Community

For the 2021 season, it is almost guaranteed that KD will not return to his roots in Washington DC to play with Bradley Beal and John Wall in the Washington Wizards. As of now, the Brooklyn Nets are poised to be a formidable team in the coming years, thanks to their lineup featuring Kyrie Irving at point guard, Caris LeVert, and Spencer Dinwiddie. Additionally, the team has De'Andre Jordan in the post and Jarrett Allen as a formidable center. With KD expected to be fully healthy and Steve Nash serving as the new coach, the Nets appear to have it all.

Personal Connection and Homecoming?

It is worth noting that Kevin Durant is from Washington DC. This fact could mean a lot, especially in the back of his mind. However, right now, it does not seem like Washington DC is at the top of his priority list. In an interview, he mentioned not wanting to play back home, though the reason behind this is not entirely clear. Nevertheless, the idea of forming another super team in Washington DC with a third star alongside Beal and Wall still lingers. The Wizards would need that third star to make it happen, which is uncertain at the moment.

Speculations and Probable Destinations for Kevin Durant

Given the current scenario, analysts suggest that re-signing with the Golden State Warriors is the most probable outcome for KD. Alternatively, Los Angeles Clippers could also see him. The New York Knicks might seem like a strong choice due to the financial incentives and the city's allure. However, the Knicks could also be a strange fit given the media scrutiny and the crowded roster. Moreover, the Warriors are in a position to offer a supermax contract, providing KD with a higher salary and a near-guaranteed success, similar to what he enjoyed with the Warriors. Additionally, the presence of other strong players like Steph Curry and Klay Thompson could help him play through tougher games.

Washington Wizards Desperation and Sentimental Appeal

While the Wizards have a sentimental appeal to their fans, there is currently no indication that Durant has any particular interest in joining the team. The team's chances would improve with a third star, but the uncertainty around John Wall's future (he might not even play next year) adds to the complexity. The key for the Wizards lies in finding the right third star to form a formidable trio alongside Beal and Wall that can contend for championship titles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Kevin Durant's potential return to Washington DC is an exciting topic, the current scenario suggests it is highly unlikely. The success of the Nets, the probable continuation of his success with the Warriors, and the uncertain future with the Wizards make it clear that KD is more likely to remain in a place where he can thrive and fend off media scrutiny. The free agency period continues to keep the basketball community on the edge of their seats, and only time will tell where Durant's career will take him next.