Kevin Durant, a star for the Houston Rockets, recently made waves during his appearance on a podcast hosted by Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson. Addressing the question of who the best player he has ever played with is, Durant was clear in his choice, citing both Stephen Curry and Russell Westbrook as equally deserving of the title.
Durant explained that he never entered a game with apprehension regarding Westbrook’s performance, noting, “With Russ I never ever feared that he was gon lose a matchup. That’s one thing I never worried about.” He described Westbrook as a driven leader who allowed him to focus solely on his own game. This same sense of ease was evident during Durant’s tenure with Curry on the Golden State Warriors, where both players kept defenses on their toes and ensured the team played with a competitive edge.
The discussion around Durant’s choices comes at a critical time, especially amid recent online discussions dubbed the “KDFiles,” which aimed to critique Westbrook’s time with the Thunder. By referring to the unwavering trust and confidence he felt with both players, Durant aimed to counter the negative narrative surrounding their past dynamic. This trust and fearlessness were central to their success, demonstrating how crucial on-court chemistry is in achieving collective goals.
Durant’s comments were timely as the Rockets faced a challenging loss to the New York Knicks, where they squandered a 16-point lead entering the fourth quarter. Durant managed to score 30 points, but ultimately, the team’s lack of rhythm late in the game contributed to their defeat. He lamented the team’s decision to slow down their offense, which led to difficult late-game situations.
Reflecting on his past with Westbrook and Curry, Durant noted that with players of their caliber on the court, holding a lead often felt secure due to their ability to dictate the pace and pressure the opposing defense. His statements not only underscore his respect for his former teammates but highlight the importance of confidence in crafting successful teams. In a league where moments of uncertainty can spell defeat, Durant’s preference for players who mitigate those fears is a testament to his championship mindset.