Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr recently opened up about Kevin Durant’s final year with the team, shedding light on the circumstances that led to Durant’s departure in 2019. As one of the most significant moves in recent NBA history, Durant’s decision to leave Golden State for the Brooklyn Nets sparked widespread discussion and speculation. Now, Kerr has provided some insight into the factors that influenced Durant’s exit and his experiences during that tumultuous season.
Kerr described Durant’s last year with the Warriors as “incredibly stressful,” largely due to the pressure the team was under to maintain their dominance and win a third consecutive championship. While Durant was a key part of the Warriors’ success, leading them to two NBA titles, Kerr acknowledged that the constant scrutiny and expectations wore on both the players and coaching staff. Injuries also played a role, as Durant dealt with a series of physical setbacks, including the devastating Achilles injury he suffered in the 2019 NBA Finals.
According to Kerr, Durant’s departure wasn’t just about on-court factors but also about personal and professional growth. He explained that KD likely wanted a new challenge and a fresh start after his time with the Warriors. “Kevin wanted something different,” Kerr said. “He wanted to take on a new role and experience something outside of Golden State.”
Durant’s decision to join the Brooklyn Nets, alongside Kyrie Irving, allowed him to redefine his career path and pursue new opportunities. Despite leaving Golden State, Kerr emphasized that Durant’s time with the Warriors was immensely successful, and there is no lingering bitterness from either side.
Kerr also expressed his gratitude for Durant’s contributions, noting that his presence elevated the Warriors to a near-unbeatable level during their championship runs. “Kevin was an incredible player for us,” Kerr added. “He helped us win two titles, and we’ll always appreciate what he brought to our team.”
In the end, Kerr’s reflections highlight the complexity of Durant’s final year with the Warriors, balancing immense success with personal challenges. As Durant continues to build his legacy with the Brooklyn Nets, his time with Golden State remains a crucial chapter in his Hall of Fame-worthy career.