Kevin Durant planning on playing for Warriors next season

Durant’s future with the Warriors, the eight-time All-Star squelched it before Monday’s Game 4 by reiterating to ESPN’s site the Undefeated that he plans to play for Golden State next season. Durant signed a two-year, $54.3 million deal with the Warriors in July with a player option after the first season. Because the NBA salary cap jumps significantly next season, he put himself in position to earn more money long-term by inking a short-term contract. The suggestion, made after the Warriors’ Game 3 win Saturday, referenced the abundance of blowouts in these NBA playoffs. Many seized on the sound bite, criticizing Durant for encouraging fans to turn off games if they’re not happy with the on-court product. Forward Draymond Green’s representatives have moved to trademark the phrase, “Dray Day,” according to an ESPN report. The filing requests to use “Dray Day” on everything from smartphone chargers to backpacks to fitness equipment to podcasts. Green started a “Dray Day” podcast this season, which is run through Uninterrupted, a network in which Green has an ownership stake with the Cavaliers’ LeBron James.