As an individual who was formerly a key part of the Golden State Warriors’ coaching staff and has moved elsewhere, Luke Walton has a unique perspective when commenting on their addition of Kevin Durant. He, like many others, was quite surprised to see the superstar make the jump.
“I was just surprised because they really had us on the ropes and that was a series that they probably should have won, being up 3–1,” Walton told SI Now on Tuesday. “And they were just beating up on us. And, I feel like when you get close to getting back to the finals, that would have been motivation to stay with that team.”
It’s interesting to see Walton take this approach. Many have bemoaned the fact that Durant left when he did because the Thunder felt like they’d taken a tangible step forward, and with Russell Westbrook under contract for another season, it opened the door for one more run.
I wouldn’t call Walton’s remarks criticism, especially compared to these comments. Still, it seems like Walton doesn’t necessarily think Durant made the best decision. Of course, that could just be him talking as the coach of a rival team in the Lakers.
