It's every Wizards fan dream to see the 2014 NBA MVP, Kevin Durant, in a D.C. jersey. Adding one more star to the equation of John Wall and Bradley Beal could make the Wiz Kids the toughest team in the East. But how obtainable is that plan?
With the recent firing of Scott Brooks, things in Oklahoma City have been getting interesting. Durant is still searching for a ring, although he sat most of the 2015 season. Westbrook proved that he can carry this team, and OKC's only option is to resign the injury-prone Durant to a five-year deal, or let him go after next season. All of these are huge reasons why the Thunder can let go of Durant come 2016.
Durant was born in Washington D.C. and attended Montrose Christian School (which produced other stars such as Greivis Vasquez, Terrence Ross, Justin Anderson, and others) in Rockville, MD. Although he attended the University of Texas and took off for Oklahoma City, Durant is very much involved in the D.C. community.
Yet it's more than the hometown connection that convinces D.C. fans that the six-time all-star is coming. The Wizards will have an abundant amount of free cap space in 2016, which is the same year Durant becomes a free agent.
It seems as if Washington is making contract decisions revolving around this hopeful addition. For example, the Wizards decided not to resign Trevor Ariza, but rather signed Paul Pierce to a two-year deal (expires in 2016). However, they are holding on to their stars like Wall, Beal, Gortat, and other young talent to make Washington an appealing location.
Washington is also making other moves in hopes to catch KD's attention. Last July, the Wizards hired David Adkins, Durant's player-development coach from Montrose. Durant refers to him as "family."
According to Durant's mom, KD definitely hears the rumors. However, he never denies them. When asked about leaving, Durant said, "That whole city is a part of me. It's in my blood. I love going back home, seeing my family and playing there but I love OKC, too." Even John Wall refers to him as "an older brother."
So, Wizards fans, buckle up. #KD2DC looks like a doable mission. Let's just hope he doesn't win a title in OKC this next season. Because if he does, we might miss out on the chance to see a homecoming.
