NBA Champion John Salley Staunchly Defends Kevin Durant’s Super Team Move

In a recent interview with VladTV, four-time NBA champion John Salley passionately defended Kevin Durant’s decision to join the Golden State Warriors, addressing the criticism Durant faced for creating a super team. Salley emphasized the importance of teamwork and chemistry in winning championships, countering the narrative that tarnishes Durant’s legacy.

Salley pointed out that no player wins a championship alone, citing historical examples like Wilt Chamberlain’s Lakers, Michael Jordan’s Bulls, and the Miami Heat’s Big 3. According to Salley, Durant’s integration into the Warriors made them a better team, and he commended the organization for securing the championships they needed.

“No one wins a championship by themselves, there’s never been”, “[Durant] fit in, he made that team, a better team…”

“I’m glad that the Warriors were smart enough to secure those other two championships they needed because winning three in a row is hard to do. Winning four is a tremendous feat,” Salley stated. He stressed the significance of team chemistry, highlighting that even the most talented player can have an off night, making teamwork essential for success.

Salley’s defense of Durant aligns with the argument that Durant’s decision was strategic and contributed to the team’s success. Durant played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ back-to-back championships, winning the Finals MVP Award both times.

In a separate interview with Arizona Central, Durant addressed the criticism surrounding his exclusion from the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) conversation. When asked about his absence in the debate dominated by LeBron James and Michael Jordan, Durant attributed it to his move to the Warriors. He posed the question, 

“Because I went to the Warriors. Why shouldn’t I be in that? That’s the question you should ask. Why not? What haven’t I done?”

Durant highlighted his achievements, including two championships, two Finals MVP Awards, a league MVP, 14 All-Star selections, six First Team All-NBA honors, four scoring titles, and two appearances in the 50-40-90 club. Despite his individual and team accomplishments, Durant’s super team move remains a focal point in discussions about his legacy and place in the GOAT conversation.