Kevin Durant reportedly sets four-team list for NBA free agency meetings

The frenzy that is NBA free agency begins at 6:00 pm ET on June 30 but, in advance of the official kick-off, plenty of whispers indicate that big-time player movement is on the horizon. For months, much of the attention has been focused on Kevin Durant's decision and, even with the reality of his ruptured Achilles, teams are expected to line up in pursuit of one of the game's best players. In fact, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN brings word that Durant is "planning to engage" with an exclusive, four-team list. 

Unsurprisingly, the Golden State Warriors are firmly in the mix for Durant and, after seemingly endless speculation, they are joined by the New York Knicks. However, Durant also reportedly plans to meet, in some form or fashion, with the Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers, with a decision that could potentially "extend well into next week." Notably absent are the Los Angeles Lakers, however, despite the presence of a newly-created slot for a max contract. 

Durant likely won't be able to take the floor in full capacity for most of the 2019-20 season but, considering the level of interest around the league, he is expected to command a full max contract. If Durant elects to stay in Oakland, he could sign a five-year pact with the Warriors, whereas the other trio of teams would be limited to four-year offers. 

It should be noted that Durant is not the only big-ticket free agent available, with Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, Jimmy Butler and others hitting the market in unison. Still, there is the potential that Durant could be the first domino to fall and, until he makes his choice, movement around the league could be slow as the quartet of teams involved maintain their flexibility.