Dion Waiters reflects on Kevin Durant leaving Oklahoma City Thunder

Former Oklahoma City Thunder player Dion Waiters discussed the 2016 departure of Kevin Durant from the franchise. Following the Thunder's loss to the Golden State Warriors in the 2016 Western Conference Finals, the team held a 3-1 series lead before eventually falling in seven games. Waiters stated that Durant had privately messaged both him and Serge Ibaka about the possibility of returning to the team for another season. Despite the potential for a roster shift, Durant ultimately chose to join the Golden State Warriors. Waiters noted that the move left the Thunder in a transitional state, leading to a roster pivot centered on Russell Westbrook. The former teammates have since maintained a personal relationship despite the organizational change.

• 2:20 AMYahoo Sports — This old Thunder role player recalls Kevin Durant's decision to leave OKC