Kevin Durant has evolved into one of the best basketball players on the planet. Now in his seventh season, the Oklahoma City forward is enjoying his best season as a professional. The talented Durant has developed a loyal following, and his fan club seems to grow by the game. Surprisingly, one of his most vocal admirers is none other than LeBron James .
Durant and King James are currently engaging in a furious battle for NBA league MVP , and there are many who believe Durant is having the better season to date. While LeBron has earned four MVP awards in his career, Durant is still looking for his first. However, this could be the year he finally breaks through.
James clearly appreciates what Durant brings to the table as a scorer and overall player, and has shared his thoughts this season on the Thunder superstar. “Individually, he can’t be stopped by any one-on-one player,” James said. “There’s nobody that can guard him one-on-one.”
This is high praise indeed from King James. LeBron has won the previous two NBA MVP awards, and four of the last five overall, but Durant is making a rather strong case of his own this season. Based purely on the numbers, the argument does have some merit.
Durant is currently averaging career highs in points, assists, steals, and field goal percentage. His overall game has improved substantially, and compares favorably with LeBron. The most significant difference between the two players this season is in scoring, with Durant currently averaging 31 points per game, which is five more than James.
James has also expressed how much he enjoys facing Durant on the court, suggesting that the challenge only serves to improve his own game. “I like going against the best,” James explained. “And he’s definitely right up there…. He’s a great guy to compete against, man. I wish I could play against him every night because he brings that competitive nature out of you.”
In their 16 head to head matchups, James has been outscored nine times by Durant. However, from a team perspective, James’ Heat has taken 13 of the 16 meetings versus Durant’s Thunder, including a 4-1 series win in the 2012 Finals.
Could we be witnessing a changing of the guard ? The rest of this season will provide some clarity on the subject. But one thing is certain. Kevin Durant has without question mounted the most significant challenge to King James since his ascension to the NBA throne.
