Kevin Durant should consider returning to OKC, not scoffing at the idea

Has there ever been a fuller circle moment in sports than when LeBron James returned to Cleveland to give the city its first major championship in 52 years? In doing so, James essentially erased much of the negativity that accompanied “The Decision” and the outrage that resulted from it.

It’s been eight years since Kevin Durant made the infamous call to join the 73-win Warriors, evoking similar negativity among the Thunder fan base. Durant became so hated in Oklahoma City that fans mocked him with chants of “cupcakes” every time he returned to the city as a visitor.

Is it time for Durant to follow in James’ footsteps and make amends with Thunder fans? This appears to be the opinion of an X fan. The Suns forward, however, scoffed at the idea.

Perhaps it was the wording of the fan’s tweet that led to Durant’s wild response.

One thing is certain: a Thunder-Durant reunion would benefit both parties immensely.

If the 2024 playoffs have proven anything, it’s that the Thunder aren’t quite ready to compete for an NBA championship. Despite finishing first in the regular season, Mark Daigneault’s team was overwhelmed by the fifth-seeded Mavericks in the second round, struggling to match their opponent’s physicality and lacking some intangibles needed to make a deep playoff run.

Likewise, Durant’s Suns were outscored by the Timberwolves in the first round, so much so that they were swept by an average margin of 15 points. With a ballooning payroll, the Suns have little room to improve the roster for next season, meaning they could be looking at another early playoff exit.

Recent history suggests that Durant didn’t hesitate to request a trade. If things continue to go south in Phoenix, it’s time for “The Slim Reaper” to find his way back to Oklahoma City.

The Thunder have the draft assets and young players to attract the Suns, while retaining Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. A Big Three of SGA, Holmgren and Durant seems intriguing.