Thoughts on the Warriors comments on the OKC organization
The Golden State Warriors feel that the OKC Thunder could have received Kevin Durant better.
Kevin Durant left the OKC Thunder this past offseason in a move that sent waves through the NBA. Not since 2010 when LeBron James departed the Cleveland Cavaliers has a free agent decision lingered and created this amount of tension. The Durant decision came in the form of a brief, stoic letter penned through The Players’ Tribune – the site Durant where happens to be Deputy Publisher . Eight months since then, there hasn’t much in the way of reconciliation between Durant and the organization.
Sam Presti has made statements thanking the four-time scoring champion for his nine years of service. Presti noted that the team was “very appreciative of Kevin’s contributions…they’re a big reason for the foundation that we stand on today.”
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That clearly wasn’t enough for the Warriors organization. Per an article written by ESPN’S Chris Haynes, the Warriors felt that the treatment of the former Thunder star was underwhelming if not dismissive.
Haynes writes,
"Sources say the Warriors were of the mindset that someone from ownership or management should have addressed the media on Durant’s behalf to help ease the tension upon his return.The feeling is that Durant should have been acknowledged or thanked, in a news conference setting, for his nine years of excellent service. The Warriors’ belief, according to sources, is that the Thunder’s silence contributed to the raw emotions, outrage and indignation that created an unsettling, hostile atmosphere for a player many consider to be the franchise’s all-time best.The Warriors felt, according to sources, that for a player who meant so much to a city — a small-market city at that — a courtesy greeting was in order from top brass, who should have issued their fans a reminder and proper perspective on Durant’s role in elevating the Thunder into a perennial championship-contending team.There was no mention from the in-game operations staff about Durant’s return."
The fans however have not deemed it the right time to let bygones be. When Durant returned to Oklahoma City for a February matchup the fans showed their displeasure with brusque chants of “Cupcake”. There were T-shirts and signs that matched the now popular euphemism. Along with the tension from the fans there was palpable strife between Durant’s former teammates as well. Notably a scuffle with Thunder forward Andre Roberson.
The Warrior’s players mocked the situation by wearing the Cupcake shirts during post game availability. Possibly the first sign of displeasure.
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Durant’s decision has been long debated since it happened on July 4th. How Thunder fans and organization alike should handle the return of Durant was also a hot subject. “Should the fans boo?” “Should the team produce and show a tribute video?” (Something the team usually stays away from). Most felt that the small-market should show gratitude to the player that made them perennial contenders.
It’s fine to feel one way or the other about how the reception Kevin received. Thankful for the years of service, or upset at the how of Kevin’s leaving. However, the Thunder no longer have any organizational responsibility for Durant. That responsibility lies with the players that remain with the team, namely the lone superstar in Russell Westbrook.
For the Warriors to publicly chastise another front office for their handling of their own affairs seems intrusive. And frankly, arrogant.