The playoffs are well and truly underway, and Kevin Durant and LeBron James have been terrific as usual. The Brooklyn Nets have taken a 3-1 lead over the Boston Celtics, while the Lakers are tied 2-2 with the Phoenix Suns. The playoffs have provided fans with mesmerizing moments. Even though Harden, Kyrie, and AD are important to their franchises, none are more important than KD and Bron. Now, another player has joined their esteemed ranks.
Recently, Donovan Mitchell became the fourth active player in the list of players to have the highest scoring output in the playoffs behind Durant, James, and Anthony Davis. It is a laudable achievement, but KD still tops the list with his impressive numbers.
Highest PPG in the playoffs by an active player (min 25 games):
29.2 — Kevin Durant
28.7 — LeBron James
28.1 — Anthony Davis
27.4 — Donovan Mitchell pic.twitter.com/4a7jwilu2f— StatMuse (@statmuse) June 1, 2021
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Kevin Durant’s game in numbers
Ever since Durant got drafted in 2007, there are no better pure scorers in the league than KD. From taking mid-range shots, layups, three-pointers, free throws, fadeaways, Durant has a plethora of options to choose from. His four NBA scoring titles are a testament to the hard work he puts on the court.
Besides being a scorer, KD is a good defender and notches up with important blocks. During the playoffs, he elevates his game to the next level. Durant has averaged 29.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in all the playoffs he has played in so far. Notably, he has shot at an effective field goal percentage of 47 percent. Hence, this proves why Durant is in a league of his own. His scoring efficiency is immaculate during clutch moments.
In the 2018 NBA finals, KD showcased his skills to the basketball community by scoring 43 points.
Besides KD, there is room in this discussion for another player – LBJ.
LeBron James is a future Hall of Famer
Despite Michael Jordan being the G.O.A.T, some fans believe that King James is the best player of all time. While this may sound strange, the Akron Hammer is arguably the only person to come into the GOAT discussion. During the playoffs, James is a different breed altogether. He is averaging 28.7 points, 9 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game.
James is the only player to win three NBA finals, with three different teams, and also win three finals MVP. It is a remarkable stat. He is also a four-time NBA champion, four-time league MVP, 17 time NBA All-Star, and also the 2008 NBA scoring champion. These are mind-blowing accolades that may not get matched in the future.
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There are no doubts about the final numbers that he will put up when he eventually retires. He is the true heir to Michael Jordan’s throne.
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Even though the league has seen incredible scorers like Kobe Bryant and Stephen Curry, there are no pure scorers in the league that come close to Kevin Durant. He is hoping to win his 3rd NBA title with the Brooklyn Nets, and it looks likely that he will achieve it. However, LeBron James will be behind his back chasing his 5th NBA title.
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