New York Knicks: How signing a superstar impacts their incumbent teams

New York Knicks: How a superstar signing impacts their incumbent team

HOUSTON, TX - MAY 4: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Houston Rockets during Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2019 NBA Playoffs on May 4, 2019 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /

6 of 6

Warriors Kevin Durant (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Kevin Durant

Then, there is the “inevitable” arrival of Kevin Durant, at least according to all the rumors around his long-term future with the New York Knicks. Little to nothing has been geared towards his return to the Golden State Warriors.

Two consecutive titles were achieved with Durant, without a fight from anyone but the Houston Rockets in the 2018 Western Conference Finals. Otherwise, the past two NBA Finals were absent of fanfare.

Like Klay Thompson leaving, Durant lowers Golden State’s profile. Granted, they won with Curry, Thompson and Green, but the road was more complicated, including losing an NBA Finals series to the Cavaliers in 2016.

If the Warriors keep that trio, they can stay near or at the West’s top, so they may still find in-season success. That preseason “guarantee” of returning to the NBA Finals will not exist, though, as other teams give them a greater run at the title, creating rare parity.

Meanwhile, Durant takes his talents to New York and makes them a top Eastern Conference team upon arrival. If he aligns with Irving or another superstar, they will be a favorite to win the 2020 NBA Finals.

25 greatest players in NYK history. dark. Next

The Warriors may continue their success without Durant, but not at the level of the past three years. That would turn the NBA upside down and open new scenarios, like LeBron James’ departure for the Lakers 10 months ago.