Golden State Warriors: Setting expectations for pending free agents

Jun 7, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) and forward Kevin Durant (35) celebrate during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game three of the 2017 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

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Kevin Durant

If he wanted, Durant could sign a 1+1 deal for $35 million this summer. It would likely cost the team at least one of Iguodala and Livingston, but Myers wouldn’t hesitate to shake Rich Kleiman’s hand if this was his demand.

However, reports are that Durant will take a paycut and sign for $31.8 million, allowing the Warriors to use their Non-Bird Exception, operate as an over-the-cap team and go into the tax to retain their super-subs.

In the summer of 2018, the Warriors will undoubtably give Durant the same freedom to name every detail of his contract that Curry should receive this summer. For now, he’s paying his dues, and going to get paid $31.8 million while doing it.

Projection: One year, $31.8 million (with a second-year player option)

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