After LeBron James’ iconic ‘decision’ ushered in the era of player empowerment, stars like Kevin Durant decided to go to the Golden State Warriors. However, that move was heavily scrutinised by the entire NBA. While Bron redeemed himself in the eyes of the Public by getting the Cleveland Cavaliers a championship, KD’s lack of rings after his Warriors exit in 2019 raises questions about his place among greats even today.
Many argue that Stephen Curry already cemented his position above the Slim Reaper when he took an underperforming Dubs to a championship in 2022, but Gilbert Arenas disagrees, citing a particular incident from 2019 in his recent podcast episode of the ‘Night Cap’ with Shannon Sharpe.
The former Washington Wizards star was discussing the fact that when considering KD’s status over Steph, one already ‘snaws’ at it he left OKC to join the Dubs. Despite winning two finals MVPs and back-to-back championships with the Warriors, KD’s legacy will be in question regardless as he left Russell Westbrook to join a stronger team. Interestingly, though, Gill points out, “When Curry and Kevin Durant were up at the same time, they only had one max to give out. They offered it to Kevin Durant, not Curry. They offered it to Kevin Durant, saying, ‘We’re maxing you,’ and he said, ‘No, this is not my team.’”
As per reports from that time, what the three-time all-star says seems to check out. The Dubs were willing not to give their home-grown superstar the max contract instead of offering Durant the 20 Million Bag. While Steph’s contract was $201 Million for 5 years signed in 2017, the Dubs offered KD a $221 Million deal. However, Durant denied the offer, which cued the front office of his upcoming exit. Does this place the Slim Reaper above Steph? Someone who have observed both of them closely disagrees.
While the former DPOY accepted that KD’s championships are in fact “real”, what Steph did in 2022 places him a bit ahead of him when the GOAT conversion is concerned.
