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NBA

Nets’ Kevin Durant breaks silence following trade request but what did he say?

It’s been an eventful time since the Nets star made his trade request, but now that he’s spoken out for the first time since, there is no further clarity.

Reporte: Nets quieren intercambio más grande de la historia por Kevin Durant
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With the ripple effects of Kevin Durant’s trade request now well and truly underway, the star has found himself at the center of the biggest story of the offseason.

Kevin Durant breaks silence

As per his most recent tweet - his first public comment since the now infamous trade request - Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant had little in the way of revelations to offer, but he did cryptically refer to what he believes is a high work ethic. Durant essentially made a declaration about the work he puts in, saying that those who have played with him know how hard he works. It’s important to note that at no point has Durant’s work rate been questioned, so what prompted his comments remains unclear. When Durant was asked to clarify his tweet he declined.

What provoked Kevin Durant?

What’s interesting here is that while he could be criticized for the circumstances surrounding his pending departure from the Nets or even his willingness to chase championships, Durant’s committment to putting in the work has never been critcized and in truth couldn’t be. This after all is a guy who has averaged 28.7 points per game in the two seasons since a serious Achilles injury. Which brings us to the question that’s hidden between the lines. Given that this is a guy who has never hidden from an online fight when he disagrees with an opinion, who said what to Kevin Durant such that he responded the way he did?

The saga begins: The effect of Kevin Durant’s trade request

While it remains unclear as to what sparked Durant’s recent tweet, one thing is very certain and that’s the idea that when he asked the Nets for a trade, it was felt around the league. Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid for example, responded to the news with a cheeky “LOL.” While other players suggested to fans that they get the popcorn ready for what would undoubtedly be an entertaining show. As for what happens now, it’s understood that Durant would like to join either the Phoenix Suns or Miami Heat. It goes without saying that the Nets do not have to oblige and that’s before we even consider whether either of those teams could meet the Nets’ valuation of Durant along with what will most certainly be a long list of players.

To that end there are some analysts who have suggested that Durant’s trade package will be the largest in NBA history. Interestingly, the former league MVP actually has a no-trade clause in his contract. What’s that mean? Basically, regardless of his desires the Nets are in no way obligated to send Durant where he wants to go, as any decision will be made on the basis of them getting the offer they are satisfied with. For now expect to hear more from Durant in the coming days now that he’s got a little off his chest.