Stephen A. Smith shares his opinion on Kevin Durant's glorious NBA career

Kevin Durant has proven himself to be one of the most prolific scorers in basketball history. His ability to make tough shots and impact plays has helped him become a force to be reckoned with in the league. After a tumultuous stint with the Brooklyn Nets, the two-time NBA champion recently got traded to the Phoenix Suns. According to many analysts, this move has made the franchise one of the favourites to win the NBA championship.

Kevin Durant has been a performer in every franchise that he has played for. His brilliance has never diminished on the big stage, and the Suns would be hoping that this helps them win their first-ever NBA championship in franchise history. Stephen A. Smith, who has often heaped praise on KD for his performances, yet again spoke highly about the former MVP on the “First Take.” However, he also pointed out a few things that he felt have held KD back from being at the very top.

“I think that when Kevin Durant is healthy, he’s the best player on the planet. That’s how I feel about him and I feel anything that he hasn’t done is because at times he was willing to be deferential. The numbers were always there, but there is that it factor, that go get it factor where he didn’t mind trusting a teammate and doing things the right way as they would say.”

Despite having won two championships, Kevin Durant often attracts a lot of criticism for not leading a team single-handedly to the title. Both his rings came as part of the Golden State Warriors, where he played alongside Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. Without a doubt, KD was a key component of both those rings, but his inability to do it on his own has always been questioned.

How much will a championship with the Phoenix Suns mean to Kevin Durant and his legacy?

Kevin Durant’s trade to the Phoenix Suns is probably going to be the biggest NBA story this season. With him on the roster, the Western Conference side looks stacked and set to re-appear in the Finals after missing out last season. Alongside him, the team also have Devin Booker, Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton, who can all be game-winners on any given day.

Phoenix has been home to some great players in the past, but they have never managed to help the franchise get to an NBA championship. However, Kevin Durant’s arrival will certainly sparkle hope in the fans and the entire city. Devin Booker will also be vital to the Suns as he can help KD with the scoring and take over games when the veteran takes his rest. The 34-year-old is currently recovering from an MCL injury and will be back post the All-Star break. With just over 30 games left, the team will have enough time to figure out how things are going to work with Durant in the lineup. If it all sets up well for them, KD could help Phoenix get to their first championship and further cement his legacy as an all-time great.

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