Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant has revealed that he has built a friendship with NBA and Utah Jazz legend Karl Malone.

Malone has most recently been working with the Jazz as a special consultant, with Durant suggesting that the former player has provided him with advice following disappointments on the court.

"I've gotten close with Karl Malone, who's called me numerous times when he can see on TV that I'm struggling, feeling bad after a loss. He can tell," Durant told Esquire magazine.

Speculation is currently growing regarding the MVP's future at the Thunder, with Durant potentially becoming a free agent in 2016.