Kevin Durant embraces joy and resurgence with the Rockets
Earlier this month, Dash Lovell, Kevin Durant’s trainer, offered insights into Durant’s revitalized spirit during a conversation with veteran NBA writer Mark Medina. Lovell noted that the Houston Rockets forward appears to be enjoying the game once again. It’s a refreshing perspective, especially considering Durant’s current environment, surrounded by a roster brimming with youthful talent eager to realize their potential.
Rockets’ Bright Future
After enduring years of rebuilding and strategic tanking, the Rockets have assembled an impressive young core. The roster features rising stars like Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard, all secured through the NBA Draft. Their efforts have propelled the Rockets to a commendable fifth place in the Western Conference, boasting a 16-7 record. Houston’s offensive prowess ranks third in the NBA, while their defense stands strong at fifth, contributing to the league’s second-best net rating.
As the season unfolds, both Durant and Sengun are solidifying their positions as likely All-Stars. The excitement is palpable for Durant, who is currently enjoying a stellar season, averaging 24.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and four assists per game. His shooting stats are equally impressive, with a field goal percentage of 50.1%, a three-point percentage of 40.4%, and an 89.1% success rate from the free-throw line. His 62.1% true shooting percentage speaks volumes about his efficiency on the court.
Finding Joy in the Game
Before a recent matchup against the Denver Nuggets, Durant sat down with Jordan Cornette from NBC Sports and Peacock. He shed light on the renewed sense of enjoyment he’s experiencing this season. “Yeah, I’ve heard that a lot, though. But I’ve been having fun, man, the last 19 years doing this, brother. It’s just a dream come true,” Durant shared.
He acknowledged that while losing can cast a shadow over the experience, he remains largely positive about the journey. “Of course, I don’t like losing, so when you pan to me and we’re losing a game, it’s easy to say I’m unhappy in that moment, but for the most part, I’m enjoying going through the grind as an NBA player.”
Durant reflected on the unique opportunity of playing alongside a young group filled with potential. “I’m just grateful to wake up every day and live this life. To be honest, playing on five different teams and having so many different coaches, you get re-energized every single year to learn something new,” he continued. “It’s been fun every day getting to work and figuring out my game and seeing how I can mesh with the team.”
In a notable shift, Durant is averaging just 17.1 shots per game—his lowest since the 2016-17 season and the second-fewest of his career. This adjustment has not gone unnoticed, sparking discussions about the Rockets’ offensive strategies and player hierarchy.
As the season progresses, Durant’s resurgence and the Rockets’ promising trajectory offer a compelling narrative, highlighting not only the individual brilliance of one of the league’s stars but also the collective potential of a team on the rise.
