NBA Rumors: Kevin Durant Ends Free Agency Talks with OKC Deal; Russell Westbrook Gets Another Season With 2014 MVP

By Mitch de Leon
NBA: Playoffs-Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden State Warriors
May 30, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30, right) is congratulated by Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) after game seven of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Thunder 96-88.  Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The rollercoaster battle for the Western Conference crown finally ended with the Golden State Warriors successfully defending their title against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7. While Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green prepare to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Russell Westbrook squad has to face yet another problem - the Kevin Durant free agency issue. Although the Steven Adams team failed to make it to the end and face LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love in the NBA Finals, rumors are rife that KD believes that the Oklahoma City Thunder will be able to dominate the Western Conference next season.

The Kevin Durant free agency talks have been making the rounds across the NBA. In fact, even the Golden State Warriors have reportedly expressed interest in signing the 2014 MVP. The San Antonio Spurs also allegedly want Durant in the team especially in light of the rumored Tim Duncan retirement soon. With KD in the Tony Parker squad, a super team can be formed with Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green and LaMarcus Aldridge. So, where will Durant sign next NBA season?

Speculations are widespread that Durant will stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder. His recent comments about the team along with his close relationship with Westbrook point to the possibility of having KD for at least one or two more seasons in Oklahoma. Will the next year see Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook finally bringing home the crown?

"I'm certain. I'm certain," said Durant when asked if he thinks he will ever win an NBA Finals crown. He added, "They don't love the game like I love it. Nobody knows much I put in the work, how much I care about my teammates, about everything. I've given my heart and soul into this since I was 8 years old. Whatever happens, I'm certain. I feel confident that that moment will happen. I'm 27 years old. Hopefully, I can play a long time in this league but nothing is guaranteed. I know one thing for sure, I'm going to put the work in."

When questioned about his future, however, Durant was less certain with his response. Pointing out the good experiences with Oklahoma, he refused to directly reply to the query. Instead, Durant opted to share his immediate plans right after the NBA playoffs 2016.

"What I got, a month? I don't know," said Durant of the time he has left before the free agency issues hound him once again. He added, "I've got to decompress, just reflect. And I really can't tell you. I'll know in the next couple of weeks - if I even think about it. But as of today, I have no thoughts, I have nothing to really think about. Just enjoy, reflect on this season and all we did as a team."

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