Two legends of the NBA weighed in today about how they view the Golden State Warriors post-Kevin Durant Signing.
Ray Allen is considering a return to the NBA to play for them if they’re interested in his services. He’s also considering returning to either the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, or Los Angeles Clippers.
Charles Barkley is not considering a comeback, but instead is voicing his disappointment over Durant leaving Oklahoma City to compete for a championship with a ready-made roster.
While chastising Durant, he also acknowledges that the pressure on NBA stars to win a championship is so immense in terms of legacy and perception that he can’t fault players for panicking and trying to win a ring through any means necessary.
As the Warriors consider adding Allen to their roster, a former player is getting interest on the free agent market. Newly renounced unrestricted free agent Festus Ezeli is in discussions with the Portland Trailblazers, although no deal is imminent at this point.
One former player officially has a new team. Brandon Rush has signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves for 1 year and $3.5 million.
The Warriors also announced that they have hired Mike Brown as an assistant coach and also signed rookie Patrick McCaw.
The Warriors are clearly in a new chapter of their franchise, and perhaps the league will never be the same again after this Durant decision. Those within the basketball community are still trying to process it.
Warriors World
Ray Allen Reaches Out to Warriors About Returning to the NBA
Charles Barkley Criticizes Kevin Durant for Joining the Warriors
Local Media
KU Sports: Brandon Rush Leaves the Warriors to Sign With Timberwolves
Oregon Live: Festus Ezeli Meeting With the Portland Trailblazers
San Jose Mercury News: Warriors Hire Mike Brown as Assistant Coach
National Media
International Business Times: A Look at the Warriors’ 2016-2017 Offseason
ESPN: Warriors sign Patrick McCaw
Inc.: Why Kevin Durant’s Contract is Financially Shrewd