The residents of Oklahoma City are currently grappling with the loss of their superstar to the team that broke their hearts just one month ago. And with compounded reports that Russell Westbrook will not renegotiate or sign an extension with the Thunder after this season, it’s likely that the former title contender will be reduced to a glorified YMCA men’s league team come 2018. A truly tragic tale.
As frustration, anger, and despair rips through OKC after losing the former league MVP, Thunder GM Sam Presti decided to not feed the outrage machine and take the high road when addressing the media.
Sam Presti was asked how Oklahomans should feel about Kevin Durant. Pretty remarkable answer: pic.twitter.com/UObZVWTnG7
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) July 5, 2016
Presti, who said Durant called him personally to break the news before it hit the media, indicated that KD was motivated by an “opportunity to pursue a different challenge” and “step outside his comfort zone.” Pursue a ‘different’ challenge or a ‘lesser’ challenge? I think the latter.
While Presti is likely throwing darts at KD’s face as he weeps into a glass of whiskey, shifting the conversation away from wallowing in self-pity or expressing anger in his departure is a good tactical move. Propping up the city’s fanbase in hopes of luring a free agent is a solid pivot from Dan Gilbert’s temper tantrum upon LeBron’s departure from Cleveland. Now for his next challenge: convincing a rational human being to call Oklahoma City home.
Looks like they’ve already started recruiting.
[h/t Deadspin]