2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

Kevin Durant: 2 years, $61.5 million (Golden State Warriors)

In the least surprising move of the summer, Kevin Durant will be re-signing with the Golden State Warriors. Try as we might to brainstorm fantasy scenarios that would’ve been more fun for the rest of the league, it was inevitable for KD to stick with an emerging dynasty willing to pay him whatever he wanted, for however long he wanted. In the end, that’ll be a two-year deal, with a player option ($31.5 million) for the second year.

On the surface, it’s easy to question why Durant didn’t opt for a five-year max after taking a discount on his “1+1” deal last summer. It might inspire speculation or doubt that he’s willing to commit to the Bay for the long haul, and Dubs fans might even begin to sweat when they realize both he and Klay Thompson will be free agents in 2019.

However, if the Warriors cruise to their third straight title and fourth in five years, those fans will be able to rest easy. By taking this deal, Durant is saving Joe Lacob $5.7 million on his max salary for 2018-19, plus another $20 million in luxury tax savings, per ESPN‘s Chris Haynes. Meanwhile, the two-time Finals MVP is priming himself for a five-year, $221 million payday next summer, when the salary cap is projected to rise to $109 million.

Another year of speculation is coming, and it’ll be smothered by another year of Warriors dominance. Golden State couldn’t lock him in for the long haul and will have to deal with both KD and Klay’s free agencies next summer, but that’s a small price to pay for another championship run, immense savings, being more likely to use their mid-level exception, and, of course, locking up the most valuable free agent available.

Bourguet Grade: A+
Hoops Habit Grade: A+