Bittersweet Realisation Strikes Kevin Durant After Bronny James’ NBA Wounds Deepen vs Suns

ByAnuj Talwalkar

Oct 18, 2024 | 8:21 AM EDT

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Seeing KD block Bronny James—does it make you feel old or just amazed at Durant's longevity?

In a thrilling preseason clash on Thursday, the Suns, led by Kevin Durant faced off against the Lakers. However, this time, Durant wasn’t just battling against LeBron James. It was his son, Bronny. As KD who is now 36 years old, faced off against the next-gen from the James clan, he was struck by an amazing, bittersweet realization of his own longevity in the league.

With Bron actually resting, the inevitable showdown between Durant and Bronny was bound to happen. And during a possession later in the game, Bronny tried to make a sharp cut to the basket, only to be met by Durant’s defense. No sooner than this happened, referees called a foul on Durant, where he seemingly appeared perplexed. Not only was this an important part of Thursday’s game, but an iconic moment, representing a significant “passing the torch” moment between two generations in basketball.

Durant’s astonishment came in once again after a fan pointed out on Instagram, “KD blocking LeBron’s son IN an NBA game, sounds crazy…,”. Durant was quick to reflect on this moment and respond, “damn, I’m old”.

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This wasn’t the first time Durant had reflected on the surreal experience of playing against Bronny. Before their first preseason matchup, Durant recalled seeing the younger James “running around” during his elementary school days. The idea that the child he once watched grow up was now competing against him in the NBA, on the same court, made the moment all the more remarkable.

In addition to the Durant-Bronny clash, other stars on the roster too made quite an impressive mark. Anthony Davis shot 4-5 from three in the first quarter, along the way to 35 points. Moreover, their No. 17 draft pick Dalton Knecht erupted for 35 points in 32 minutes.

Lakers rookies impress in battle against Kevin Durant and Suns

JJ Redick can experience relief after a string of preseason losses began raising questions about his designs. The Purple and Gold began the game through their “hub”. Anthony Davis started hitting four consecutive threes en route to his colossal 35-point performance against Phoenix. However, the rookies, Bronny James and particularly Dalton Knecht had their best showings tonight.

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Seeing KD block Bronny James—does it make you feel old or just amazed at Durant's longevity?

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Speaking of the first-round pick, the 23-year-old had some difficulties gaining a healthy rhythm in his shooting. There were spurts of possessions when Knecht couldn’t miss. But against the Dessert, the purity of his shots was off the charts. Scoring 10 points in overtime after forcing the extended time, he ended the game with a joint-high 35 points. It included eight triples, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

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From the sideline, LeBron James watching in elation cheered on for Knecht. He also might have seen a promising display from his elder son. On the stat sheet, Bronny James only had four points on 50% shooting, the best he has had. However, even though his output didn’t reflect, in his 17 minutes on the hardwood, the Lakers were a +17. This was the first time in the entire preseason that the 20-year-old had a positive net differential. Tonight, it looked like James belonged on the floor, far from a wanderer and more in tune with his role.

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Tomorrow, the Lakers will have their last preseason game against the Golden State Warriors. LeBron James, with his durability for the season in mind, is reportedly set to miss a second game in a row. After such a prolific outing, it’s another chance for the pair of Lakers rookies to showcase their readiness for the league. Can Bronny James elevate his offensive game and make a similar impact against the Bay tomorrow? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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