The Bay area fans have finally witnessed Kevin Durant at the Chase Center since his last visit in 2019. However, the day didn’t go in the favor of the Slim Reaper, at least for the initial part of the game. The rusty KD missed several shots on his attempt to dominate Stephen Curry and his men. However, The Phoenix Suns‘ franchise superstar Devin Booker came in for his rescue with his berserk of a performance in the first of the game.
KD’s night at San Francisco started off with a heartwarming tribute video from the Dubs’ management. The 2x NBA Champion couldn’t get a celebrated send off from the Dub Nations after his magnificent three years in the franchise. KD stepped into the fans-filled Chase Center for the first time in four years and the superstar couldn’t get off to a smooth start.
Amid Stephen Curry & Co resistance, Devin Booker saves Durant
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It’s usual for the players to miss the rim during the opening week of the season. But, fans couldn’t believe to see Kevin Durant to go down in that fashion. They took to social media, addressing KD’s rusty start on the initial half of the game. Even though he managed to give a proper comeback in the second half, it still caught the attention of the fans. One user wrote, “Kevin Durant wasn’t his usual self today. It’s the first game it happens,” via X.
KD recorded only 7-22 from the field. However, Devin Booker evened out for KD’s absence, as he dropped 21 points in the first half alone with 4 rebounds and 4 assists at an 80% FG.
Devin Booker’s first half in San Francisco:
☀️ 21 PTS
☀️ 4 REB
☀️ 4 AST
☀️ 80% FG#KiaTipOff23 | Live on TNT pic.twitter.com/cBbfNBmaaZ— NBA (@NBA) October 25, 2023
Booker’s response was a counterattack to Golden State Warriors’ fight back at the end of the first quarter. The Suns went off to flying start with a 15-7 lead. Later, Steph, Klay Thompson and crew fought back and closed the first quarter with a 28-28 score. However, Booker’s continued points burst led the team to a 108-104 victory.
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Despite an underwhelming performance, he made a heart touching statement for the Dub Nations.
Durant speaks about Bay area fans
Following a nail-biting finish to the second game of the opening day, Durant had a special message for the Warriors fans. During the post-game press conference, he said, “It is always good to be recognized… I was excited to see people that I haven’t seen in a while. Fan base here has got nothing but love and respect.”
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Will KD bounce back from his rusty start? Let us know in the comments below.