Raptors HC Darko Rajakovic’s Two Cents on Kevin Durant’s Heavily Criticized Quality

Kevin Durant is one of the Greatest players in NBA history. He is a 2-time Champion and a former league MVP. Despite being as great as he is, Durant’s one quality has been heavily criticized recently. KD’s leadership has been a hot topic of discussion among critics. Citing his failed playoff runs after leaving the Golden State Warriors, many believe Durant does not have what it takes to lead a team to a Championship.

While most people criticizing Durant have never even spent a day with him, one of his former coaches had a different opinion about KD’s leadership. Toronto Raptors’ head coach, Darko Rajakovic, was an assistant coach at OKC when Durant was their franchise player. Amid Durant’s criticism, Rajakovic had nothing but praise for the 2-time Champion. “His leadership is really coming from the way he competes and prepares himself for every game.” The Raptors head coach told analyst Shane Young ahead of tonight’s game.

Rajakovic worked closely with KD during the Thunder days and admired the 35-year-old’s insane work ethic. “Nobody works as hard as Kevin Durant.” Darko claims he even mentions Durant’s passion and work ethic while coaching young players in the NBA. The Suns superstar’s hunger to be great has helped him stay productive and efficient even at age 35. “I’m really proud of his career.” Rajakovic added. While Durant might not be a vocal leader like some other NBA greats, he leads by example through his work ethic and dedication to being great. “I don’t feel like I want people to call me a leader, but I also don’t want people to say I’m not one either.” Durant addressed the criticism in a Boardroom interview last month.

A Championship in Phoenix could silence Kevin Durant’s critics

Even though Durant is a 2-time Champion, many disregard his titles because he won them after joining a 73-win Warriors team. KD has constantly been criticized for taking the easy route to becoming a Champion. And that will be a part of his legacy until he wins another Championship without Stephen Curry and Co. While it was debatable who the leader was in Golden State, it is clear Durant is the leader in Phoenix. He has been the only consistent superstar in the injury-riddled Suns roster this season.

Read More: Raptors Coach Darko Rajakovic Risks $50,000 Fine in Fuming Postgame Presser

If Kevin Durant can lead the Suns to their first Championship in franchise history this season, the critics will have nothing negative to say about his leadership. The Suns are among the top teams in the stacked Western Conference. And KD has a chance to silence the critics by lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy at the end of this season.