2018 NBA free agency: Early predictions for where top 15 players will sign

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2. Kevin Durant, SF, Golden State Warriors (Player Option)

Where he will sign: Golden State Warriors

There’s been a lot of speculation on mediums like Reddit and Twitter about Kevin Durant potentially taking on the villain role again this offseason. The obvious connection with KD and the Washington Wizards seems to be the most prominent prediction.

However, I’m going to give Durant the benefit of the doubt. Instead of assuming he’s going to jump ship and display that lack of loyalty he’s become notorious (albeit, unnecessarily) for, he decides to stay with the Warriors.

My guess is he declines his player option, dipping his toes into the free agency pool for the briefest of moments. Once Golden State has worked out whatever other financial situations that are sure to arise this offseason, he inks another “1+1” discounted deal, allowing the Warriors to keep the band together. They can figure out the Klay Thompson situation next offseason.

Even if Golden State doesn’t win it all this season (a significant possibility), Durant stays put. He seems to be enjoying his time in the Bay Area, and has enjoyed far more success than he did in Oklahoma City. Why ruin a good thing?