Kevin Durant captivated by Alexander-Walker’s halfcourt heroics
Kevin Durant is more than just a basketball player; he’s a true connoisseur of the game. With nearly two decades of experience, Durant has become a historian of the sport, immersing himself in the rich legacy of the NBA while also taking time to appreciate the talents of current players. His insights into the game are both profound and enlightening, as anyone who has listened to him discuss basketball on various platforms can attest.
A Moment of Awe
On Monday night, even Durant found himself in disbelief. Nickeil Alexander-Walker of the Atlanta Hawks delivered a jaw-dropping halfcourt buzzer-beater during a matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite the Hawks ultimately succumbing to the Thunder with a score of 140-129, Alexander-Walker’s audacious shot became the talk of the night. Durant took to Twitter, expressing his admiration: “Wow I can’t believe he even thought to use the left…bold enough to act on that thought, hold the follow through and then swish it. My god, one of those god-like moments I be talkin bout.”
Hawks’ Rollercoaster Season
While Alexander-Walker shone brightly with a team-leading 30 points on 24 attempts, his performance is a glimpse of the talent the Hawks possess. The team entered the season with high expectations, fueled by significant offseason moves, including the acquisition of Alexander-Walker and NBA champion Kristaps Porzingis. However, their journey has been rocky, currently standing at 15-19 and sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference.
Injuries have plagued the Hawks, notably sidelining All-Star point guard Trae Young for 24 games. Porzingis, too, has struggled with his health, adding to the team’s woes. Despite this, there is a silver lining: the emergence of Jalen Johnson. The young forward is making a name for himself, averaging 23.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and impressive shooting percentages, including 52.2% from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc.
Trade Rumors and Future Prospects
As the season progresses, speculation around the Hawks’ roster has intensified. There are whispers in league circles about the possibility of acquiring Anthony Davis, prompting discussions on potentially trading Young. The Hawks seem to recognize the star potential in Johnson, which could influence their decision-making going forward.
Interestingly, the Houston Rockets were initially viewed as a potential trade destination for Young, particularly after the Hawks were unable to secure a long-term extension with him during the offseason. However, indications suggest that the Rockets may not pursue high-profile trades, making the future of Young and the Hawks uncertain as they navigate a tumultuous season.
In the world of basketball, where moments of brilliance can illuminate a daunting path, Kevin Durant’s reaction to Alexander-Walker’s stunning shot serves as a reminder of the magic that can unfold on the court, even amid struggles.
