Unpopular opinion: OKC Thunder should retire Kevin Durant’s number

Kevin Durant went from hero to villain among the OKC Thunder fan base with one decision. But let’s not forget everything he did for us.

When Kevin Durant announced he was signing with the Golden State Warriors in the summer of 2016, he lost many friends connected to the OKC Thunder. From players and coaches, to fans and media members, millions of people who followed the NBA came out with torches and pitchforks on social media. And in all honesty, the OKC Thunder and their fans had a right to be upset. But now almost three years later, I’m here to say it’s all water under the bridge.

Before I explain, let me say that I completely understand where the anger is coming from. People were upset with Durant, not only for leaving but for how he handled things.

Leaving without saying goodbye

Durant didn’t bother to say goodbye to his teammates, coaches or fans, he didn’t give an explanation, and by all accounts, didn’t care about anyone other than himself. It was a selfish decision made on selfish terms, and he wasn’t even brave enough to goodbye or thank you. And on top of all that, he chose to join the team which he blew a 3-1 lead to just weeks prior.

Myself, along with most Thunder fans that day, were upset, to say the least when the news broke. For some it was anger, others more disappointment. And as the days went on after the initial report, we all came to understand he didn’t leave on good terms. However, I think it’s safe to say he would handle it differently if he had the chance to do it over again.

Like dealing with any other loss in life, I began reflecting on the good times we shared together. A flood of memories crossed my mind during that time. From countless game-winning shots, getting to the Finals, winning MVP and many other fond memories I’ll have for the rest of my life.

It was then I realized that Durant spent eight years in Oklahoma City, helping to build the franchise and gave everything he had in pursuit of a championship. I’ve been avidly following OKC since the beginning, and I couldn’t think of one other time when he gave up or didn’t go all out for the team.

In my opinion, there’s no debating he gave everything to the city for eight consecutive seasons. And did so playing at an elite level. So for those reasons, the OKC Thunder should retire Durant’s number.

Timing is everything

Before Sam Presti and Clay Bennet sign off on that decision, however, I think it would be in

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everyone’s best interest to wait until the time is right. First and foremost, they should pitch the idea Russell Westbrook and everybody else in the locker room privately. If that discussion goes well, then present the idea to the public during a time when some drama wouldn’t disrupt the team.

Love him or hate him, there’s no denying Durant is one of the best basketball players to ever walk the face of the planet. And he gave the first eight years of his career to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although he’ll always be hated by many Thunder fans, one mistake shouldn’t overshadow his time with the team. By all appearances, Durant and Westbrook have made amends as much as possible, and I think the team and fans should follow suit.

Durant was the main piece of a big three which quickly established a great basketball culture in Oklahoma City, and that shouldn’t go unnoticed. I may stand in the minority when it comes to my opinion on Durant, but there’s absolutely no debating what he did for the team in the eight years he was with us.

He made a mistake, but now it’s finally time to forgive and forget.