The Los Angeles Lakers kicked off the 2023-24 NBA season on a high note, securing a victory. Following a playoff-like loss to the Denver Nuggets, they executed a late-game comeback against Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns. Although they trailed for the majority of the match, it was the Lakers’ significant contributions in the fourth quarter that propelled them to a hard-fought 100-95 win.

This game marked the first head-to-head matchup between LeBron James and Durant in five years. Despite their extended absence from facing each other, the two superstar athletes delivered precisely what fans had longed for—an exhilarating showdown. Durant showcased his scoring prowess by putting up 39 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, while James contributed 21 points and dished out 9 assists.

Kevin Durant describes the league in 4 words

For Durant, notching up 39 points in the absence of his comrades Devin Booker and Bradley Beal wasn’t the only highlight of the evening. In achieving this feat, KD eclipsed Hakeem Olajuwon on the all-time scoring list. He now firmly sits at number 12, just behind Elvin Hayes. When questioned about the night’s ups and downs, Durant briefly delved into the details before summing it up by stating, “It’s a make or miss league.”

Throughout most of the game, KD and the Suns held a dominant position, but their missed opportunities in the fourth quarter allowed the Lakers to stage a comeback and surpass them. When talking about his historic feat, KD displayed his gratitude. Furthermore, he also gave a hilarious insight that his mother used to have a crush on Hakeen Olajuwon.

Anthony Davis was pivotal in Lakers’ win

Considering the absence of Booker and Beal from the game, Durant’s performance takes on added significance. Scoring 39 points, KD single-handedly outscored the rest of his team’s starters combined.

While the Lakers capitalized on the Suns’ lackluster performance in the fourth quarter, it was Anthony Davis who emerged as the linchpin of their victory. Davis had faced considerable criticism after a lackluster second half during the Lakers’ season opener, in which they fell to the Denver Nuggets.

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However, Davis made a resounding comeback against the Phoenix Suns. Not only did he lead the team with 30 points, but he also secured a double-double with 12 rebounds. Adding to his defensive prowess, he contributed three blocks and three steals. Demonstrating his reliability in clutch situations, Davis sunk multiple free throws in the final seconds to ice the game for the Lakers.

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