Though it is still far away, nearly every team is anticipating the summer of 2016 when reigning MVP Kevin Durant will become an unrestricted free agent, including the Los Angeles Lakers. With Kobe Bryant likely to retire following the end of his contract, the Lakers will have the cap room to offer Durant a max contract.
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There will be plenty of competition, however, and one rumor says that Durant could see the New York Knicks as a prime destination according to Frank Isola of the NY Daily News:
No question about it,” says a person close to Durant. “Kevin loves Carmelo (Anthony). It could work in New York. But never rule out the Thunder.”
There are conflicting rumors, however, with Adam Zagoria of SNY.tv hearing that the Lakers have a better chance of landing the superstar than the Knicks:
Added an NBA scout, “I do not see [Durant going to the Knicks]. Better chance in L.A.”
The chances of the Lakers landing Durant are slim as it is. There will be numerous teams with maximum cap space and the Lakers will have to offer more than the Lakers brand to lure Durant in. For his part, Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said the Lakers have to improve the talent on the team next season.
There are sure to be plenty of rumors surrounding Durant until he actually does become a free agent and makes his choice. The Lakers will be in the running and will do everything they can to bring in the superstar — if it actually works will be a big question.
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