Kevin Durant was always meant to wear a New York Knicks jersey … just not one bearing his name.
Durant’s tumultuous journey with the Knicks took yet another twist during Fanatics Fest at the Javits Center in New York City earlier this month, where he revealed that he owns a notable Knicks collectible … one that gained new significance after he embraced the colors of another borough.
“I had a Patrick Ewing jersey,” Durant said during a panel alongside NBA veteran Jalen Rose, eliciting cheers from a predominantly pro-Knicks audience. The atmosphere swiftly shifted to boos when he continued, “That’s wild because I ended up growing up hating the Knicks; playing for Brooklyn, I ended up hating the Knicks.”
Durant’s relationship with Manhattan’s team has always been complex: since his departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2016, he and the Knicks have been frequently mentioned in free agency and trade rumors. After winning two championships and Finals MVP awards with the Golden State Warriors, Durant infamously chose the Brooklyn Nets over the Knicks, creating a super team that included James Harden and Kyrie Irving.
At the time, Durant described the Knicks as the opposite of the “cool thing,” which influenced his decision to join the Nets.
Injuries and inconsistency, however, thwarted the Nets’ championship aspirations before they could truly begin, leading to Durant’s trade to the Phoenix Suns at the 2023 trade deadline. Since then, the Suns have added Bradley Beal to play alongside Durant and existing All-Star Devin Booker, yet they faced difficulties, finishing sixth in the Western Conference last season and being swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
Currently, Durant is set to face the Knicks twice this season: New York will visit Phoenix on Nov. 20, while the Suns will travel to Madison Square Garden on Apr. 6. It’s worth noting that new Knick Mikal Bridges was part of the trade that sent Durant to the west, as he was the main asset acquired by the Nets before being traded to Manhattan earlier this summer.
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Kevin Durant’s Complicated Knicks Saga: From Fan to Foe
Understanding Kevin Durant’s Journey with the Knicks
Kevin Durant, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has had a tumultuous relationship with the New York Knicks. Once considered a potential savior for the franchise, his journey from an eager fan to a rival player presents a fascinating narrative filled with anticipation, disappointment, and fierce competition.
The Early Days: A Knicks Fan’s Dream
- Childhood Influence: Growing up in Washington, D.C., Kevin Durant was a Knicks fan, idolizing stars like Patrick Ewing.
- New York’s Legacy: The allure of the iconic Madison Square Garden and the Knicks’ storied history fueled Durant’s aspirations.
- Public Interest: With his undeniable talent, many believed Durant would one day don the blue and orange.
The Rise of Durant: A Star is Born
Durant’s journey from the Texas Longhorns to the NBA was marked by incredible performances. Drafted second overall by the Seattle Supersonics in 2007, his transition to the Oklahoma City Thunder solidified his status as one of the league’s premier players. As he racked up accolades, the prospect of him joining the Knicks became a tantalizing possibility for fans.
Achievements That Amplified the Buzz
| Year | Achievement | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | NBA Scoring Champion | Oklahoma City Thunder |
| 2012 | NBA MVP | Oklahoma City Thunder |
| 2017 | NBA Champion | Golden State Warriors |
| 2022 | NBA Champion | Brooklyn Nets |
The Summer of 2019: High Hopes and Harsh Realities
As free agency approached in July 2019, the Knicks were poised to make significant moves, hoping to land Durant alongside other stars like Kyrie Irving. However, Durant’s Achilles injury during the 2019 NBA Finals altered the trajectory of the free-agent landscape.
Key Factors Influencing Durant’s Decision
- Injury Concerns: Durant’s Achilles injury raised red flags, causing teams, including the Knicks, to reassess their strategies.
- Franchise Culture: The Knicks’ struggles and management controversies cast doubt on their ability to support a superstar.
- The Brooklyn Shift: Ultimately, Durant chose to sign with the Brooklyn Nets, transforming the landscape of New York basketball.
From Anticipation to Frustration: Knicks Fans React
The Knicks’ fanbase was left reeling after Durant’s decision to join their cross-town rivals. The disappointment stemmed from years of hope and speculation that he would ultimately wear a Knicks jersey. The social media backlash highlighted the emotional investment fans had placed in his potential arrival.
Reactions from Fans and Analysts
“Kevin Durant was the player we needed to restore the Knicks’ glory. His decision to join the Nets felt like a betrayal.” – Knicks Fan
“The Knicks’ failure to land Durant was more about the franchise’s image than his injury.” – Basketball Analyst
The New Rivalry: Nets vs. Knicks
With Durant donning a Brooklyn Nets jersey, the dynamics of New York basketball changed. What was once a potential partnership became a fierce rivalry. The stakes were raised, and games between the Knicks and Nets turned into high-profile events, showcasing two teams vying for supremacy in the city.
Key Matchups Between the Knicks and Nets
| Date | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 16, 2020 | Nets | 117-112 |
| Mar 15, 2020 | Nets | 113-109 |
| Dec 12, 2020 | Knicks | 130-104 |
| Apr 5, 2021 | Nets | 114-112 |
Benefits of the Rivalry for New York Basketball
The rivalry between the Knicks and Nets has reinvigorated basketball in New York City, drawing in fans and creating a buzz around the games. Here are some of the benefits:
- Increased Attendance: Matchups attract larger crowds, filling arenas and boosting local economies.
- Media Attention: The rivalry garners significant media coverage, elevating both teams’ profiles.
- Player Development: The competition fosters growth among players, pushing them to elevate their games.
Practical Tips for Knicks Fans
As a Knicks fan navigating this new landscape, consider the following tips:
- Stay Informed: Follow team news and player updates to remain engaged with the franchise’s direction.
- Support Local Talent: Attend games and support emerging players who could become future stars.
- Engage with Community: Join fan forums and social media groups to share experiences and connect with fellow supporters.
The Future: Hope and Expectations
As Kevin Durant continues to excel with the Brooklyn Nets, the Knicks are in a transitional phase. They are focused on rebuilding and developing young talent, with fans hoping that one day they will see their team return to championship contention. The rivalry will undoubtedly evolve, and it remains to be seen how Durant’s legacy will impact the Knicks moving forward.
What Lies Ahead for the Knicks?
- Draft Strategy: The Knicks will need to focus on smart drafting to rebuild their roster.
- Player Development: Investing in young talent and coaching will be crucial for future success.
- Franchise Culture: Establishing a winning culture will be essential in attracting top players in the future.
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