For what has seemed like an eternity, Washington Wizards fans have been waiting for the 2016 NBA offseason in hopes of attaining one particular player. Kevin Durant was born in DC and grew up in Maryland, and his connection to the DMV can be seen inked into his back with a large "Maryland" tattoo. He has frequently been spotted at Redskins games, and he lets his DC fandom be known on twitter and Instagram. While all of these things seem to help the Wizards in their attempt to lure in an MVP talent, there are some things that stand in the way of this seemingly perfect match being made.
1. The Oklahoma City Thunder are one of the best teams in the NBA and have a very talented roster featuring Russell Westbrook, Serge Ibaka, and Steven Adams.
2. The Wizards had a disappointing 2015 season, making it look less likely that they have what it takes to be one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
3. Other teams located in big markets such as Boston, Miami, Toronto, and LA all have more projected cap space than the Wizards.
4. If the Wizards do land Durant, it could possibly mean the end of the John Wall-Bradley Beal backcourt duo. Known as the "House of Guards" after the popular DC themed Netflix series "House of Cards", the tandem has been one of the best in the league when they are both healthy. Recent reports suggest that the Wizards are considering giving Beal a max contract for 5 years, which would significantly reduce the amount of cap space left to try to bring in Durant.
With Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals tonight, there are a few ways that the outcome of the game could help or hurt the Wizards.
If OKC wins game 7, but loses in the Finals to the Cavaliers: Durant will have made it to the Finals with OKC twice, and come up empty handed both times. This could help the Wizards because Durant could realize that the road to the Finals is much easier in the Eastern Conference than in the West and may motivate him to come home.
If OKC loses game 7: The Thunder would have blown a 3-1 series lead, which could work either way. It could show Durant that the Thunder just do not have what it takes to make that next step. Or, it could leave him with unfinished business and make him want to stay with the Thunder.
If OKC wins game 7, and wins the Finals: Durant would have brought a Championship to the Thunder, which could also work either way. It could give closure to the Durant era in OKC and allow him to move on without feeling any regret about his time there. Or it could inspire him to stay in attempts to build a dynasty in Oklahoma City.
Time will tell where Durant ends up, wherever he goes he will provide that team with an elite player who can take a team from a pretender to a contender. As much as I hope he makes a homecoming to the DMV, I don't see him leaving OKC. However if he proves me wrong, I will be thrilled.
I'm keeping my expectations low because if there is a way to mess things up, DC teams will ALWAYS find a way.
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