What If the New York Knicks Drafted Kevin Durant in 2007?

By Jocelyn Alano August 09, 2024 02:18

Photo by Elaine Thompson/AP

In a parallel universe where draft nights unfold with the drama and unpredictability of a blockbuster movie, the 2007 NBA Draft might have delivered one of the greatest plot twists in sports history: the New York Knicks selecting Kevin Durant. This scenario, as tempting as it is speculative, offers an intriguing glimpse into an alternate reality where the fate of one of basketball's most storied franchises takes a dramatically different path, resonating with ripples through the league, the city of New York, and the very fabric of Durant's legendary career.

Imagine a world where the bright lights of Madison Square Garden shine upon Durant, a prodigious talent with the potential to not just play in New York but to redefine Knicks basketball for a generation. This introspective journey isn't just about a missed draft pick; it's an exploration of potential, legacy, and the compelling question of "what if?" that fuels the dreams of fans and the narratives of sports history alike.

Knicks Breakdown Post-Durant

Initial Impact on the Roster

If the Knicks did draft Durant, it would be a more compelling first-year roster. It was 2007, and the Knicks were a motley collection of prime veterans supported by trinkets you could accumulate on an NBA shopping spree. The signing of Durant, another forward with scoring versatility, would have changed how New York plays offense.

If nothing else, Durant could have been a reliable scorer, which the Knicks desperately needed. Durant averaged 20.3 points in his rookie season. He was able to score the ball efficiently and looked very poised for a player of this age.

Durant's height (6'10") and wingspan would have enabled him to play different positions, causing matchup problems for opposing defenses. His floor-spreading shooting would have created more driving lanes for teammates to take advantage of, which would only help the overall offensive flow.

Team Dynamics

Durant is one of the most notorious non-stop workers in NBA history. He could have built a winning culture for the Knicks, motivating younger players to play better. A change in mindset could have caused a better staff culture.

Eddy Curry and Jamal Crawford both would've had to figure out how to play with an all-world superstar. The Knicks would presumably have expected better production from the latter two if they were used to playing with Durant.

Most Likely Path for Durant's Career

Development and Growth

Had Kevin Durant landed with the Knicks, his career arc as a player might have been very different.

Coaching Influence: Isiah Thomas coached this Knicks team during its terrible 2007-08 campaign. Thomas was a controversial figure during his time, but he played the game and might have had more than a few words of wisdom for Durant while downtimes swept over him and they parted ways. However, the revolving door of coaches and management during this time could have stunted Durant's development.

Playing Style: The Knicks system could have been better for a young player to develop his game. Durant could have been better served in a more structured environment that allowed his skills to be polished at an earlier state, likely turning him into the champion he is today much sooner.

Moments And Decision Makers

Drafting Decisions

The Knicks' choice of Wilson Chandler at No. 23 overall rather than Durant had widespread effects. Chandler had a solid run but never nearly hit the level of Durant. Had the Knicks made that pick and chosen a generational talent, it may have had some long-term effects on how they approached drafts in later years.

Coaching Changes

Stability vs. Instability: If Durant had been a Knick, the franchise might have opted for coaching stability to help his development along faster. This could have led to a winning culture instead of all the changes that happened with this franchise.

Coaching Styles: This could have been coached differently and changed how Durant played. A good coach could have kept Durant from sliding away. If the emphasis on ball movement and developing talent had been a huge focus, KD's potential might have been maximized, resulting in an even more dynamic offensive system.

Altered Franchise History

Performance Over the Years

Playoff Appearances: The Knicks could have made the playoffs more if Durant had led this team. The franchise has underachieved—they usually don't even make the playoffs. Enter Durant, who could have ultimately flipped that script.

Fan Engagement: If there is one thing the New York market delivers, it's discerning Knicks fans. A Durant-led contender would also have increased the interest and attendance.

Long-Term Implications

Franchise Reputation: The Knicks struggle to attract free agents. By staying healthy and thriving with a guy like Durant, the Knicks may have actually reversed their cursed status by creating an image as an organization other stars would want to play for to win championships.

Legacy and Impact: By staying in New York, Durant could have had a chance to cement his place on the Mount Rushmore of basketball. To win some championships in New York would have been to solidify his legacy and add more to the story of one of basketball's great franchises.

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