It has been two months since Kevin Durant’s surprising decision to leave Oklahoma City for the Bay. In doing so, Durant broke up a talented duo that could have become one of the best in league history.
Much has been said and speculated about the relationship between Durant and long-term teammate Russell Westbrook. The two have been known to be friends and have publicly expressed that. But there has also been speculation that Westbrook’s on-court play and behavior may have frustrated Durant to the point of leaving. At one time, Durant said their relationship would never be the same.
On the other hand, there has been speculation about their relationship after Durant’s decision. From KD not telling Russ about his move to Westbrook laughing loudly when asked about him at an airport, things did not seem all that okay between the former teammates.
But according to Kevin Durant, everything is totally fine.
Question from kid: "How has your relationship with Russell Westbrook changed?" Crowd hoots and hollers. KD: "What is this, Jerry Springer?"
— Mike Finger (@mikefinger) September 9, 2016
Kevin Durant on his relationship with Russell Westbrook. #Thunder #Warriors pic.twitter.com/D0bwNd7kiG
— Rockets Insider (@Rockets_Insider) September 9, 2016
A transcription via Erik Horne of the Oklahoman:
“We’re still cool. We’re going to compete against each other at the highest level. We’re gonna have fun against each other. We’re still cool.”
Who knows how true that is? There’s no doubt that Westbrook was hurt by the decision but even he has said that they won’t throw away eight years of friendship because of it. So while KD and Russ may not be talking much right now and while there may be hard feelings, down the line, this does not seem like a friendship-ending decision.
Now we wait for the first game between the Thunder and Warriors.
