Independence Day: Kevin Durant bolts the Thunder

Kevin Durant, who spent his rookie season in Seattle before being spirited away to Oklahoma City, decided to bolt the Thunder and join forces with Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors on Monday.

Marc Stein reports that it’s a two year $54 million deal. With the second year being a player option, this will allow Durant to have yet another huge pay day in the not so distant future. It also allows a sliver of hope for other teams to lure him while still in his prime. Maybe even teams that don’t yet exist?

In signing with the Warriors, who are coming off of a 73-win regular season and a disappointing trip to the Finals, Durant’s chances for an NBA Title would seem to significantly increase.

He explained his decision in a Players’ Tribune statement.

The primary mandate I had for myself in making this decision was to have it based on the potential for my growth as a player — as that has always steered me in the right direction. But I am also at a point in my life where it is of equal importance to find an opportunity that encourages my evolution as a man: moving out of my comfort zone to a new city and community which offers the greatest potential for my contribution and personal growth. With this in mind, I have decided that I am going to join the Golden State Warriors.

Clay Bennett’s reported plea to him for “loyalty” did not succeed, but that doesn’t mean Durant doesn’t feel for those he leaves behind.

It really pains me to know that I will disappoint so many people with this choice, but I believe I am doing what I feel is the right thing at this point in my life and my playing career.

Though Durant never decided to leave Seattle, the people of Seattle know how painful it is to lose him.

At least he will come back a couple times a year to visit.