We know Kevin Durant likes Boston as a city. Which is very different from saying “I’m taking my talents to Boston” but liking where you play is certainly a factor in the decision-making matrix.
So is Boston going to pursue Durant this summer when he becomes a free agent?
Duh.
Celtics GM Danny Ainge is on the hunt for a superstar and is calling on every major free agent, not to mention calling on any elite player even rumored to be available via trade. So yes, expect the Celtics to go after Durant this summer, as explained by Chris Forsberg of ESPN.With Boston positioned to fish again this summer for that elusive big catch that could propel the team forward, the Celtics would covet the chance to pitch Boston as a possible destination when Durant reaches unrestricted free agency.
Scoff if you want -- and most will -- the Celtics are in position to make an intriguing sales pitch to any star talent that becomes available....
It’s also hard to imagine how, if Durant elects to explore his options this offseason, he doesn’t at least give Ainge another chance to sit down with his family.
It will be interesting to see if Durant does the tour and meets with Boston or other potential suitors, KD is not the kind of guy looking to do the high-profile, recruit-me, Carmelo Anthony tour. But the smart money is on a similar result to ‘Melo in one way — Durant staying with his current team. At least for another year.
The buzz around the league is that if he leaves Oklahoma City, the frontrunner is Golden State. But if Durant does open up the recruiting, Boston could be an excellent landing spot.