As we head closer to the start of training camp, there’s always the possibility that Durant will be a member of the Nets when the 2022-23 season begins. However, during a face-to-face meeting in London with team owner Joe Tsai over the weekend, the former league MVP reiterated his stance that he still wants to be traded, according to Sams Harania. Durant’s stance hasn’t wavered at all throughout this process, but in a bit of new information, the two-time champion also told Tsai that the Nets have to choose between him and the tandem of head coach Steve Nash and general manager Sean Marks . per Harania. Durant reportedly lacks “faith” in the direction of the franchise, and with the ultimatum now down, it throws a new wrench into Brooklyn’s plans for the future. Chai responded Monday night by tweeting, “Our front office and coaching staff have my support. We will make decisions in the best interest of the Brooklyn Nets.” Check the opt-in box to confirm you want to join.
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While the Nets haven’t lived up to their championship aspirations in every season Durant has played for them, it’s surprising to hear that he’s essentially calling for both Nash and Marks to be fired. Especially when it comes to Nash, who initially received support from Durant in the recruiting process because of their time together in Golden State. Nash posted a 92-62 record in two seasons with the Nets, including playoff appearances both years. However, Nash’s tenure got off to a rocky start when Irving said on Durant’s podcast that he doesn’t really see the team having a head coach in terms of team leadership shortly after Nash was hired. Durant agreed and said coaching could be a “collaborative effort” between Nash, Durant, Irving and even assistant coach Zach Vaughn. While that could be read as the two star players just wanting to be vocal leaders for their team, it’s not exactly a resounding endorsement right after Nash was hired. While Nash has put together winning seasons, his coaching hasn’t exactly been without its flaws. Brooklyn’s defense has been heavily criticized the past two seasons, and the isolation-heavy offense they’ve run hasn’t been the most successful game. There were also reports that Nash’s coaching style was part of the reason James Harden requested a trade from the Nets. So while Durant initially supported Nash when he was taken, there are certainly reasons why that support may have waned. As for Marks, it’s hard to see exactly what issues Durant has with the Brooklyn general manager, who is a respected front-office executive around the league. This offseason alone, the Nets made moves that upgraded the supporting cast around Durant and Irving — should the two remain in Brooklyn — adding Royce O’Neal, TJ Warren and re-signing Patty Mills. The team will also get a fully healthy Joe Harris and Ben Simmons to add even more talent around their two stars. This new information about Durant reportedly forcing Tsai to choose between him or Nash and Marks certainly makes this whole ordeal more complicated, and we’ll have to wait and see if any other outcome emerges.
