Amid continuing speculation about Kevin Durant's future as the Warriors star enters free agency next year, one unidentified Golden State player believes this season will be Durant's last after a heated exchange with Draymond Green earlier this week.
The player said the Warriors' "only hope" of keeping Durant is being able to say Golden State has Durant's support, according to The Athletic. Golden State suspended Green for Tuesday's 110-103 victory over the Hawks for "conduct detrimental to the team."
“With what was said, there is already no way Durant is coming back,” an unidentified player told The Athletic. “The only hope is that they can say this summer, ‘See, KD. We’ve got your back. We protected you from Draymond.’”
Green and Durant had a verbal altercation at the end of regulation Monday against the Clippers after Green failed to get a shot off after losing possession on the final play.
It was reported the confrontation continued in the locker room after a 121-116 overtime loss, though coach Steve Kerr denied claims Green questioned Durant about his impending free agency.
Durant, a nine-time All-Star, already has been rumored to potentially join LeBron James with the Lakers or head to the Knicks, but Durant said last month that money will be a big factor in his decision.
Durant, 30, has helped the Warriors win back-to-back NBA championships since joining Golden State in 2016, earning Finals MVP awards each time. He is averaging 27.5 points, 7.3 rebounds and 6.5 assists this season.
