Durant joining Nets, reportedly alongside Kyrie, DeAndre Jordan
Kevin Durant confirmed on his media platform Sunday that he'll join the Brooklyn Nets. It's a reported four-year, $164-million max contract, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Durant is set to join Kyrie Irving, while his close friend DeAndre Jordan will also sign with Brooklyn, according to Wojnarowski. Irving's deal is reportedly worth $141 million over four years.
Jordan will reportedly get four years and $40 million, but in order to fit all players under the salary cap, Durant and Irving will have to take less than the max, sources told Wojnarowski and ESPN colleague Ramona Shelburne.
Durant informed Warriors president Bob Myers of his decision to leave while in New York on Sunday, Wojnarowski reports.
There's a possibility Kevin Durant will engage in a sign-and-trade swap with Golden State and Brooklyn, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 30, 2019
In making the move, Durant has shifted the balance of power in the NBA, similar to his decision to join the Warriors in 2016 - although he may not play at all next season. The 10-time All-Star is rehabilitating from surgery after rupturing his right Achilles tendon during Game 5 of the NBA Finals three weeks ago.
The 30-year-old had been widely linked to both New York clubs throughout the regular season, although more emphasis was put on the Knicks. The Nets have developed a reputation around the NBA in the last few years as a forward-thinking organization, led by general manager Sean Marks and head coach Kenny Atkinson.
The Warriors were reportedly offering Durant a five-year, $221-million deal. Without him - and with Klay Thompson expected to be sidelined several months with a torn ACL - the dynasty that produced three NBA championships in five years appears to be on its last legs.
Durant also leaves Golden State amid controversy. He hadn't played in over a month due to a right calf injury before he returned for Game 5 of the Finals, and subsequently tore his Achilles after less than 12 minutes on the floor. Myers took personal responsibility for the decision to play him afterward. Earlier this past season, Durant also butted heads with teammate Draymond Green, with Green reportedly daring him to leave as a free agent during a locker room argument.
Durant ends his tenure in Golden State averaging 25.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in 208 regular-season games. In 48 playoff contests, he averaged 29.6 points and won two NBA championships, earning Finals MVP both times.