When the New York Knicks announced on Wednesday that former Oklahoma City Thunder assistant coach Brian Keefe would be part of Derek Fisher's coaching staff, many were speculating that it was a move intended to lure in the biggest free agent in the summer of 2016: Kevin Durant. An NBA source told New York Post that Durant is very close to Keefe and even went as far as saying that "he's Durant's guy".
But Keefe is only part of the reason why the Knicks under Phil Jackson is now considered as one of the biggest threats to OKC for Durant when he becomes an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2016. The hiring of Derrick Fisher as the team's new head coach is said to be the single biggest factor why Durant might consider the Knicks as his next destination two summers from now, according to ESPN's Marc Stein. Stein wrote, "The Knicks, sources say, expect to be a contender for Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant when he is projected to become a free agent in July 2016 and believe their chances will be enhanced by the presence of Fisher, one of Durant's favorite teammates with the Thunder."
Durant and Fisher became very close during their time with the Thunder, Ian Begley of ESPN New York said. Begley reveals that Fisher "took on the role of a mentor/big brother to the young star." Durant has once called Fisher a great locker room guy and one of the best leaders that he has been around with in his entire career in the NBA.
But Begley believes that any conversation concerning Durant heading to New York is purely speculation. But he also believes that if the Thunder continues to fall short on winning a championship, Durant's mentality may change. Some of those close to Durant actually think that the Thunder star may decide to leave via free agency if things don't change despite his great love for Oklahoma City.
"He only wants to win a championship," one league source familiar with Durant's thinking said Tuesday.
Moreover, Fisher's presence could help lead him to New York if he decides to bolt Oklahoma City.
"It will definitely be a factor," the same league source close to the situation said.
Begley also points out another obvious link between Durant and New York. His current agency, Roc Nation Sports, is being run by Jay-Z, one of Big Apple's most prominent residents. Jay-Z is also seen as a way for the Knicks to have Durant to play for for them..
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