If the New York Knicks are looking to make a run at Kevin Durant if and when he becomes a free agent in 2016, they may have taken a step in the right direction with one of their recent hires. According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, Durant is “very close” with new Knicks assistant coach Brian Keefe.
Keefe, who was hired this week, spent the past seven seasons with the Oklahoma City — five as an assistant coach and two as a developmental coach.
“He’s Durant’s guy,” a league source told Berman.
Durant mentioned last season how Keefe called him out on his body language and attitude, so he obviously has a great deal of respect for the coach. KD also has a close relationship with Fisher, whom he played alongside with the Thunder. Durant was vocal in backing Fisher as a candidate for the Knicks head coaching job and reportedly helped sell Carmelo Anthony on playing for him.
It’s quite possible the Thunder will sign Durant to an extension before he hits free agency, but the stars are certainly aligned for the Knicks to be a top contender for KD’s services should he become a free agent.
