Kevin Durant Reminisces “Special Time” With James Harden and Russell Westbrook: “Never Gonna Forget These Moments”

In their 36th game of the season, the Phoenix Suns were hosted by the Los Angeles Clippers in a matchup brimming with talent on both sides. The highly anticipated reunion of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden after nine long years added an extra layer of excitement for NBA fans. The court witnessed a spectacular display as the game unfolded. Kevin Durant stole the spotlight, unleashing a remarkable 30-point performance.

James Harden, in a well-rounded effort, contributed 19 points and 10 assists. Meanwhile, Westbrook played a supporting role, managing to notch 9 points. The Clippers won with a 27-point margin. However, due to the presence of the three superstars on the court, a sense of nostalgia came knocking about their collaborative days.

Kevin Durant looks back at his OKC days

As the final buzzer echoed through the arena, concluding the Phoenix Suns’ clash against the Clippers, Kevin Durant found himself reflecting on the prospect of sharing the NBA court with Russell Westbrook and James Harden once again. Nostalgia swept over him, taking him back to his initial NBA days with the Oklahoma City Thunder. In response, KD expressed, “It was a special, special time that I always pull back from. I always loved playing with those guys.”

Despite no longer being teammates, Durant acknowledged and admired the enduring success of his former compatriots. He appreciated the fact that they have solidified their places in the league over nearly 15 years. It was evident that Durant held a genuine appreciation for the remarkable journeys Westbrook and Harden had embarked on since their shared Thunder days.

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The KD-Harden-Westbrook Thunder can hold their own in today’s NBA

Despite facing certain limitations, the early 2010s OKC team was tailor-made for the modern NBA. Despite constraints in incorporating effective 3&D strategies with larger players, the team can be adjusted to become a consistent 50-win roster.

KD, Westbrook, and Harden exhibited seamless ball-handling skills, excelling in mid-range, long-range, and driving lanes, forcing opposing defenses to constantly be on their toes. Alongside them, the OKC roster boasted talents like Serge Ibaka, Jeff Green, Nenad Krstic, and others.

Ibaka, already a versatile defender, perfectly fit the mold for today’s fast-paced offenses. With years of conditioning, he could have elevated his outside shooting and transformed into an ideal floor-spacing big man. Jeff Green, though traded for Kendrick Perkins, was undervalued. In his recent stint, he emerged as a crucial asset off the bench during the Denver Nuggets’ championship run.

Despite not attempting a significant number of three-pointers, Krstic showcased excellent long-midrange shooting. In the 09-10 season, the seven-foot center converted over 45% of his long-range two-pointers. Given his size and shooting touch, he had the potential to evolve into a reliable three-point shooter.

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Considering the talent surrounding them and the evolved playing style of the NBA, a more spread-out defense would have created ample driving lanes for the three superstars.