The Vertical Pod with Woj: Jeff Van Gundy
Jeff Van Gundy joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj to discuss Kevin Durant's move to the Golden State Warriors.
The pair talk about the impact on the Warriors, the NBA and the Thunder. They compare Durant’s move with LeBron James’ to the Miami Heat, and the ramifications for the league to have a powerhouse that likely has no peer. They also talk about what the Thunder should do next, if they should consider trading Russell Westbrook and possible destinations for him.
They also talk about the influx of money in summer free agency, and how it will impact teams and locker rooms next season.
2:00: Van Gundy’s reaction to Durant signing with the Warriors.
2:30: How the perception of greatness influenced Durant’s decision.
4:23: How the Warriors compare to the Miami Heat’s Big Three teams.
8:25: The tough position the Thunder are in moving forward.
10:46: Draymond Green’s unselfishness in recruiting Durant.
13:49: The draw of big markets to star players like Durant.
16:16: If he doesn’t commit long term, should the Thunder trade Russell Westbrook?
22:05: Van Gundy tells a revealing story of Westbrook’s close relationship with the Oklahoma City community.
23:36: Westbrook’s competitive mindset and his small circle.
28:38: If Durant returned, would Thunder have been title contenders this season?
31:24: The impact of the inflated contracts signed this summer.
36:49: The importance of teams showing restraint in free agency.
