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Golden State Warriors: What is going on with Kevin Durant?

By Nathan Beighle

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 29: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the second half of an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on November 29, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 29: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the second half of an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on November 29, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors have played the last nine games without Kevin Durant after numerous rumors of his return. That said, what’s going on with KD?

We know the facts. The Golden State Warriors superstar Kevin Durant injured his right calf in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Houston Rockets. It was diagnosed as a mild right calf injury, but it must’ve been worse than expected.

Recently, it was reported that Durant’s progression clearly isn’t what it was expected to be according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.

“Durant just isn’t ready. His body isn’t ready. The trainers don’t believe it, he doesn’t believe it.”

That said, something isn’t adding up. Per Boston Sports Medicine, a mild calf strain takes 1-3 weeks to heal and be back to sporting activities. For Durant, it’s been far more than three weeks since he’s taken the court.

The last time Durant was on the court, when he hurt his calf, was May 8, over a month ago. While the NBA game is far more intense than your average pick-up ball, the length of Durant’s injury seems a bit strange.

There’s no denying the importance of Durant. He could’ve singlehandedly changed the entire landscape of the Finals. Would he have caused the Warriors to win in five or six?

Who knows, but we do know that this injury has changed not only the Finals but potentially the entire NBA.

That begs the question: What’s really going on with Kevin Durant? Will he be back prior to the ending of the 2019 NBA Finals? Will he return to Golden State? Is he playing it safe, not wanting a DeMarcus Cousins-like injury to ruin free agency?

Clearly upset that he can’t be there for his team, Durant’s been involved in cheering on his team, hyping up his players, and most likely given counsel when asked. Either way, Durant hasn’t shied away from supporting his team.

From that angle, let’s be honest with ourselves. There’s no reading between the lines about free agency. This injury has devasted the Warriors and Durant. It may have been worse than first thought, but if he were capable of contributing, he would be.

Next. Warriors: 15 Greatest NBA playoff moments. dark

Let’s put that perspective of Durant and his character to rest. He’s dedicated to Golden State, whether or not he re-signs.

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