Steve Nash helped Warriors recruit Kevin Durant to Golden State

Warriors used Steve Nash as a 'sounding board' in their pursuit of Durant

The Golden State Warriors put on a full-court press to get Kevin Durant to sign with them.

Draymond Green constantly communicated with Durant last season and Stephen Curry did the same after Golden State's pitch meeting during the opening days of free agency. Jerry West put in a pivotal call as well, but the simple act of listening by two-time MVP Steve Nash, who works for Golden State as a player development consultant, proved to be a difference maker for Durant.

From SI's Lee Jenkins:

Warriors' advisor Jerry West made headlines with a phone call, but Durant shared more fundamental concerns about chemistry and fit in conversations with Nash.

"Steve knows us--€”our culture and our guys--€”so well," says Golden State assistant coach Bruce Fraser, who was with Nash in Phoenix, as were several other Warriors staffers. "He doesn't sell anybody on anything. He's just a great sounding board." Fraser was also crucial, because he is close to Nash and spoke with him throughout the process. The Warriors were therefore able to understand Durant's concerns and address them.

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But several Golden State coaches and executives also acknowledge the everlasting assist of yet another legendary floor general. "Without Steve Nash," one says, "I'm not sure if we get Kevin Durant."

Somewhat similar to West, Nash experienced a lot of individual success but could never lead his team to a championship. Durant has been in a similar situation his whole career as well, so Nash could relate to him on that level in their conversations. Plus just having Nash, the ultimate team player, speak to Durant about the team-first culture in Golden State is a great asset for the Warriors to have.

Ultimately, Durant chose to leave the Oklahoma City Thunder for the Golden State because the Warriors give him the best opportunity to win a championship. But understandably so, Durant definitely had some trepidation about signing with Golden State. Yet through his conversation with Nash, the Warriors were able to address Durant's fears and now they have yet another superstar on their team.

Even in retirement, Nash is still dishing out assists.