Kevin Durant believes he should be in NBA GOAT conversation

[GOATcards]

https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/kevin-durant-believes-he-should-be-in-nba-goat-conversation-why-shouldnt-i-be-in-that/

The Arizona Republic's Duane Rankin asked Durant why he isn't widely involved in the greatest of all time conversation, and he suggested that there's only one thing keeping him out of it.

"Because I went to the Warriors," Durant told Rankin. "Why shouldn't I be in that? That's the question you should ask. Why not? What haven't I done?"

[Ericc5Bears]

Your GOAT argument dies when your team replaces you with Andrew Wiggins and then immediately wins a title the first year they're back to full health.

[fabiani12333]

No, if Durant hadn't gone to the Warriors, he very well could be without a title and Finals MVP.

Curry was able to win a title and finals MVP in his absence. He wanted to do it without the Warriors, so he should go do it. He almost got back to the finals with the Nets, but the tip of his foot was on the line.

Those in the best of all time conversation have won a combination of several titles and MVPs -- Russell (11 and 5), MJ (6 and 5), LeBron (4 and 4), Kareem (6 and 6), Magic (5 and 3), Bird (3 and 3), Chamberlain (2 and 4), Duncan (5 and 2), Curry (4 and 2), Shaq (4 and 1) and Kobe (5 and 1).

Durant has 1 MVP and 2 titles with the Warriors -- hell of a career, but not in the elite tier yet.

[ninjacookies]

Goatse. (if you know, you knew)


His general post-retirement perception will be interesting. We all know he's uber talented and one of the greatest pure offensive scorers of all-time. But snotty attitude, standoffish, and won his only 2 titles with a 'stacked' GS squad (even though he was the best player in the Finals).

[GOLDPRIZM]

Durant joined a Warriors team that were already champions before him and again right after he left, if you replace Durant and his 25-30 million dollar contract with a good role player or two (like Wiggins), the Warriors still win those titles, just maybe not as easily as they did.

Durant is great but FAR from a GOAT

[fabiani12333]

Durant joined a Warriors team that were already champions before him and again right after he left, if you replace Durant and his 25-30 million dollar contract with a good role player or two (like Wiggins), the Warriors still win those titles, just maybe not as easily as they did.

Durant is great but FAR from a GOAT

I don't know about that -- the Rockets nearly knocked them off in the conference finals in Durant's second title season.

[Nomad]

All I know is, Pacers spent half (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7A7VjBU8d8) their postgame press conference talking about guarding D.

Carlisle, Siakem, and Nesmith gave him props.

[rawkstar2k]

Talent and skill wise, 100% goat conversation. Accolades, no.


And who cares if he joined the Warriors. Let’s not pretend the goats didn’t have stacked teams, whether built organically or not. How many titles would KD have if he stayed on the Warriors? They would have won a third straight if he didn’t get hurt. But he got hurt and they lost because they were trying to rush him back because they needed him.

You can’t objectively say he’s not one of the greatest to ever play the game.

[cardsin47]

Never ceases to amaze me when out of 8 billion on earth, the only one that thinks you’re the GOAT is you….

[Asian62150]

What does GOAT even mean these days? Top 5? Top 10?

Durant never carried a team to the chip like the other greats have.

Yes, he was the best player on a championship team, but that Warriors team didn't need carrying.

If you're talking GOAT, he gets (rightfully) knocked for running away from a challenge. He robbed us of a Thunder-Warriors rivalry. But he's still an amazing scorer. In terms of being able to put the ball in the hoop, he's probably a top 3-5.

All and all, that's pretty good. Nothing to hang you head about.

[Bcr]

I don't think KD knows what GOAT stands for.

[hermanotarjeta]

Durant doesn’t realize he’s in the same category as Bron.

[drobfan8]

What does GOAT even mean these days? Top 5? Top 10?

Durant never carried a team to the chip like the other greats have.

Yes, he was the best player on a championship team, but that Warriors team didn't need carrying.

If you're talking GOAT, he gets (rightfully) knocked for running away from a challenge. He robbed us of a Thunder-Warriors rivalry. But he's still an amazing scorer. In terms of being able to put the ball in the hoop, he's probably a top 3-5.

All and all, that's pretty good. Nothing to hang you head about.

Well said.

These days a GOAT means in the conversation. KD really isn't in there.

GOAT pure shooter/scorer? Sure.

I don't even see him on a Dirk level. Who carried a franchise forever. KD had the most scared eyes.I've ever seen when he realised his team was about to squander a 3-1 lead. Westbrook didn't have those.scared eyes.

His insecurity makes him a fair ways off GOAT level.

Leaving OKC was one thing. A lot of stars do that (OKC trading Harden and not going over the cap showed they weren't a top level franchise). But Leaving GS was a really dumb move. Oh man. Not many could argue if he had 4 or 5 titles.

[cms11]

Your GOAT argument dies when your team replaces you with Andrew Wiggins and then immediately wins a title the first year they're back to full health.

Durant is Karl Malone if he had signed with the Bulls.

[gomiamigo]

Durant is not the GOAT but one of the Goats as we commonly speak about them these days.

Just as one can say 'maybe he wouldn't have a title and 2 Finals MVPs' you can also say 'the Warriors couldn't beat a healthy Cavs team' so they all ran out to the Hamptons and begged KD to join them. You can't assume those two titles without KD, anymore than you can say KD would have won with Russ and an improved Harden if they all stayed in OKC.

Wilt is the true GOAT. Then MJ for those who don't believe the NBA existed before the 80s. Then a dropoff. So no, KD is not on that level.

# of titles doesn't make you the GOAT [Bob Horry] any more than having a more popular off-court reputation does. Only on-court performance counts.

[rifleman69]

R Kelly believed he could fly. We all have dreams.

[cms11]

Durant is not the GOAT but one of the Goats as we commonly speak about them these days.

Just as one can say 'maybe he wouldn't have a title and 2 Finals MVPs' you can also say 'the Warriors couldn't beat a healthy Cavs team' so they all ran out to the Hamptons and begged KD to join them. You can't assume those two titles without KD, anymore than you can say KD would have won with Russ and an improved Harden if they all stayed in OKC.

Wilt is the true GOAT. Then MJ for those who don't believe the NBA existed before the 80s. Then a dropoff. So no, KD is not on that level.

# of titles doesn't make you the GOAT [Bob Horry] any more than having a more popular off-court reputation does. Only on-court performance counts.

Wilt was easily the GOAT of his era - no one comes close to him averaging 40 points and 25 rebounds a game over his first 9 seasons.

[DontToewsMeBro]

KD is a great player but GOAT? Is he even in the top 25 all time?

[asujbl]

Kevin Durant can wish in one hand and crap in the other… and see which gets filled up first

[asujbl]

KD is a great player but GOAT? Is he even in the top 25 all time?

Yes. Yes he is

That’s why he’s delusional

[cardia10]

He may sneak into the top 25 barely, but the GOAT is not even in question. When you have to bring it up yourself, you aren't it. I mean, he was replaced by Andrew Wiggins....not goat material.

[pac213up]

Absolute elite scorer but not dominant in other areas to be in the GOAT conversation. Had a couple good defensive years but could have been elite on that side. And a very average facilitator.

[yiguiri2002]

I'm not a KD fan and he's crazy to think he's in the GOAT conversation but people are as crazy to not see him as a Top 25 player.

[JRX]

Greatest bus rider of all time.

[asujbl]

I'm not a KD fan and he's crazy to think he's in the GOAT conversation but people are as crazy to not see him as a Top 25 player.

This is accurate

[hermanotarjeta]

Greatest bus rider of all time.

With Lebron behind the bus steering wheel, why not?

[GOATcards]

Wilt was easily the GOAT of his era - no one comes close to him averaging 40 points and 25 rebounds a game over his first 9 seasons.

how did his numbers do in the playoffs where his opponent was often headlined by the reputed defensive GOAT?

[asujbl]

With Lebron behind the bus steering wheel, why not?

You have issues

[codered]

Durant, like lebron does himself no favours when he seemingly is telling us how good he is, instead of letting everyone else decide. Granted i get he probably feels slighted because everyone constantly makes excuses against his greatness.

People don’t want to hear it but Durant is closer to bird as far as individual achievements are concerned than someone like dirk.

Durant: Championships x 2, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP x 1, all-star games x 13, all nba x 10 (6 - 1st, 4 - 2nd), scoring titles x 4, 50-40-90 club x 2 and ROY

Bird : Championships x 3, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP’s x 3, all-star games x 12, all nba x 10 (9 - 1st, 1 - 2nd), 50-40-90 club x 2, all nba defensive team x 3 (2nd teams) and ROY

Durant career numbers: pts 27.4 rebs 7.0 assists 4.4
Bird career numbers: pts 24.3 rebs 10.0 assists 6.3

They almost have identical shooting percentages as well.

I’m taking Bird for what it’s worth but I think the point is Durant feels like he should be in the discussion with the greats. If you look objectively you could definitely make an argument to put him at the tail end of the top 10. He’s not for me but I can see a convincing argument based on numbers alone. That’s kind of the point I believe. Too many people making ridiculous claims that he’s not even a top 25 all time.

[asujbl]

Durant, like lebron does himself no favours when he seemingly is telling us how good he is, instead of letting everyone else decide. Granted i get he probably feels slighted because everyone constantly makes excuses against his greatness.

People don’t want to hear it but Durant is closer to bird as far as individual achievements are concerned than someone like dirk.

Durant: Championships x 2, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP x 1, all-star games x 13, all nba x 10 (6 - 1st, 4 - 2nd), scoring titles x 4, 50-40-90 club x 2 and ROY

Bird : Championships x 3, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP’s x 3, all-star games x 12, all nba x 10 (9 - 1st, 1 - 2nd), 50-40-90 club x 2, all nba defensive team x 3 (2nd teams) and ROY

Durant career numbers: pts 27.4 rebs 7.0 assists 4.4
Bird career numbers: pts 24.3 rebs 10.0 assists 6.3

They almost have identical shooting percentages as well.

I’m taking Bird for what it’s worth but I think the point is Durant feels like he should be in the discussion with the greats. If you look objectively you could definitely make an argument to put him at the tail end of the top 10. He’s not for me but I can see a convincing argument based on numbers alone. That’s kind of the point I believe. Too many people making ridiculous claims that he’s not even a top 25 all time.

But LeBron is that good

Why even mention him?

You’re part of the problem

[codered]

But LeBron is that good

Why even mention him?

Lebron is great. I don’t like him but he’s incredible. Second greatest of all time in my opinion. I mention lebron because I wonder why both of them have to continually reaffirm their greatness to us the fans, instead of waiting for their careers to be over and let others decide. I wonder if it’s a product of players playing today and wanting so badly to be recognized or just a strange thing they have in common

[rhigh2390]

But LeBron is that good

Why even mention him?

You’re part of the problem

If anyone is that good, they wouldn't need to constantly tell people they're that good...


KD is 100% top 25. I'd say firmly top 15-17.

[asujbl]

Lebron is great. I don’t like him but he’s incredible. Second greatest of all time in my opinion. I mention lebron because I wonder why both of them have to continually reaffirm their greatness to us the fans, instead of waiting for their careers to be over and let others decide. I wonder if it’s a product of players playing today and wanting so badly to be recognized or just a strange thing they have in common

But LeBron doing it is justified

Bringing him up is crazy town

That’s what you did for some random reason

[asujbl]

If anyone is that good, they wouldn't need to constantly tell people they're that good...


KD is 100% top 25. I'd say firmly top 15-17.

If you’re talking about Durant? I’m fine with this

[GOATcards]

With Lebron behind the bus steering wheel, why not?

You have issues

*taps sign*


isn't there a dedicated Westbrook thread? you're the Westbrook buy, Nomad is the Neeesmith guy, ninja is the BBW fetish guy, rats is the Wilt guy, Hellcat is the 101 guy, permabanned guy is Luka guy, kardsin47 is the Wemby guy, daeve is the Yoker guy, Khal is the negativity guy, Tallboy is the knowledge/RealGM guy, asymmetrical bet is the shill-bidding victim guy, pcptrade is the jealousy-causing guy, Chris P is the pickups guy, hermano is the Bron-ball-busting guy, go Miami is the philly/Troel guy, jcardstore is the pull-the-chair guy, Arianny_Fan is the best-avatar guy, AbraCalabro is the Goldin-fanboy guy, which makes me
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https://media1.tenor.com/m/hfRYd87ZQ20AAAAC/spaceballs-funny.gif

like every other of the named persons with monomania, hermano should start and post only in a Bron-Ball-Busting thread. He should title it that.

[GOATcards]

These two 'metrics' (especially in combination) align strongly with perceptions of greatness, and Slim ranks pretty highly on both. (Harden pooping the bed hard in multiple playoff elimination games makes him something of an outlier. Unless you wanna say that it's statistical noise lol)

https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/nba_mvp_shares.html

1. LeBron James 8.815
2. Michael Jordan* 8.115
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar* 6.105
4. Larry Bird* 5.612
5. Magic Johnson* 5.104
6. Bill Russell* 4.748
7. Shaquille O'Neal* 4.380
8. Karl Malone* 4.296
9. Tim Duncan* 4.278
10. Kobe Bryant* 4.202
11. Wilt Chamberlain* 4.152
12. James Harden 3.656
13. Julius Erving* 3.551
14. Giannis Antetokounmpo 3.511
15. Kevin Durant 3.210
16. David Robinson* 3.123
17. Moses Malone* 2.854
18. Mel Daniels* 2.795
19. Kevin Garnett* 2.753
20. Nikola Jokić 2.738


https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/vorp_career_p.html

1. LeBron James 35.40
2. Michael Jordan* 24.73
3. Tim Duncan* 18.56
4. Magic Johnson* 18.34
5. Kobe Bryant* 16.15
6. Larry Bird* 15.35
7. Shaquille O'Neal* 15.32
8. Kevin Durant 14.84
9. Scottie Pippen* 14.18
10. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar* 12.99
11. John Stockton* 12.93
12. Hakeem Olajuwon* 12.87
13. Kawhi Leonard 12.51
14. Stephen Curry 12.49
15. Dwyane Wade* 12.30
16. Karl Malone* 12.07
17. James Harden 11.87
18. Chris Paul 11.86
19. Dirk Nowitzki* 11.79
20. Clyde Drexler* 10.65

edit: KD would drop to #11 after you put in Wilt and Mr. Russell and adjust for playoff schedule length, and credit Roger Murdock for pre-1973 VORP which would put him around the 18 mark (turns out that VORP is about 1/2 WS...and now I gotta calculate Wilt and Russell VORP as 1/2 their WS)

[GOATcards]

I wanna see kd_the_sniper's case for kd as goat.

user avatar:
https://www.blowoutforums.com/image.php?u=73161&dateline=1681341977

[GOATcards]

If anyone is that good, they wouldn't need to constantly tell people they're that good...


TIL (https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/) that Muhammad Ali can't be the greatest

[jcmel323]

13-17 all time right now with lots of potential to be in the top 3-10 when retired

[dayrider1973]

If you have to tell us you should be in that conversation that just confirms to me that you aren’t in that conversation.

[GOATcards]

taps sign:
TIL (https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/) that Muhammad Ali can't be the greatest

If you have to tell us you should be in that conversation that just confirms to me that you aren’t in that conversation.

LeBron said after the '16 title win that it made him the greatest. Must not be in the conversation (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1HWQLTqFcJdJJNvMFDAwikJXujuh75uajUPrE0eF2XXc/htmlview#gid=0) then

[drobfan8]

Durant, like lebron does himself no favours when he seemingly is telling us how good he is, instead of letting everyone else decide. Granted i get he probably feels slighted because everyone constantly makes excuses against his greatness.

People don’t want to hear it but Durant is closer to bird as far as individual achievements are concerned than someone like dirk.

Durant: Championships x 2, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP x 1, all-star games x 13, all nba x 10 (6 - 1st, 4 - 2nd), scoring titles x 4, 50-40-90 club x 2 and ROY

Bird : Championships x 3, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP’s x 3, all-star games x 12, all nba x 10 (9 - 1st, 1 - 2nd), 50-40-90 club x 2, all nba defensive team x 3 (2nd teams) and ROY

Durant career numbers: pts 27.4 rebs 7.0 assists 4.4
Bird career numbers: pts 24.3 rebs 10.0 assists 6.3

They almost have identical shooting percentages as well.

I’m taking Bird for what it’s worth but I think the point is Durant feels like he should be in the discussion with the greats. If you look objectively you could definitely make an argument to put him at the tail end of the top 10. He’s not for me but I can see a convincing argument based on numbers alone. That’s kind of the point I believe. Too many people making ridiculous claims that he’s not even a top 25 all time.

You made me spit out my milk saying he's closer to Bird than Dirk. He's below both and it's borderline disrespectful to put him over Dirk.

Swap KD with Dirk in his prime years like KD was and Dirk wins another 2 titles and probably those finals MVPs also.

Dirk went through one of the toughest gauntlets to win a title.

Durant went through the easiest to win his.

KD is really yet to show that he can carry a franchise like a Dirk.

Wash your mouth out.

The insecurity from KD himself and his 1 fan is wild.

[hermanotarjeta]

Lebron is great. I don’t like him but he’s incredible. Second greatest of all time in my opinion. I mention lebron because I wonder why both of them have to continually reaffirm their greatness to us the fans, instead of waiting for their careers to be over and let others decide. I wonder if it’s a product of players playing today and wanting so badly to be recognized or just a strange thing they have in common

It’s a millennial thang - you are spot on.

[hermanotarjeta]

*taps sign*



like every other of the named persons with monomania, hermano should start and post only in a Bron-Ball-Busting thread. He should title it that.

LOL, it’s funny, but Lebron is the Kevin Bacon of basketball cards - he can be blamed within six degrees of separation for everything we complain about on these message boards.

[yiguiri2002]

You made me spit out my milk saying he's closer to Bird than Dirk. He's below both and it's borderline disrespectful to put him over Dirk.

Swap KD with Dirk in his prime years like KD was and Dirk wins another 2 titles and probably those finals MVPs also.

Dirk went through one of the toughest gauntlets to win a title.

Durant went through the easiest to win his.

KD is really yet to show that he can carry a franchise like a Dirk.

Wash your mouth out.

The insecurity from KD himself and his 1 fan is wild.

I love Dirk and he's super underrated but it's not disrespectful to put KD above him. Most people would.

KD has 6 1st Team All-NBA selections. Dirk had 4. Even if KD retired after this season, he'll have the same amount of ASG as Dirk (with Dirk given one) and 1 fewer All-NBA selection.

KD also finished second in MVP voting in multiple years, Dirk didn't. As bad as KD's team have been in the postseason, Dirk was the only one with a number 1 seed losing in the first round.

[bmf]

If anyone is that good, they wouldn't need to constantly tell people they're that good.

That makes no sense. You can be incredibly good and also insecure.

[GOATcards]

LOL, it’s funny, but Lebron is the Kevin Bacon of basketball cards - he can be blamed within six degrees of separation for everything we complain about on these message boards.

^ start your ball-buster thread with that statement

[GOATcards]

re Dirk,
was the '11 Finals a Bron choke job or a Dirk carry job? Let's get our narratives straight

(before y'all say "both," what amount of weighting for each, then?)

edit: KD is 4 spots behind Dirk in the latest RealGM 100
(https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1HWQLTqFcJdJJNvMFDAwikJXujuh75uajUPrE0eF2XXc/htmlview#gid=0)

[drobfan8]

I love Dirk and he's super underrated but it's not disrespectful to put KD above him. Most people would.

KD has 6 1st Team All-NBA selections. Dirk had 4. Even if KD retired after this season, he'll have the same amount of ASG as Dirk (with Dirk given one) and 1 fewer All-NBA selection.

KD also finished second in MVP voting in multiple years, Dirk didn't. As bad as KD's team have been in the postseason, Dirk was the only one with a number 1 seed losing in the first round.

Dirk went up against KG and TD for the 4 spot. Pretty tough company.

ASG means absolutely nothing so I'll move along from that one.

Oomph. Bringing up MVPs. Go back and take a look. Dirk probably should have won in 04/05 and 05/06.

Losing in the 1st round sucks as the 1 seed. But that's how the West was. Tim Duncan lost vs Dirk as the 2 seed. I think the Spurs lost again as the 1 seed or the 2nd seed vs Memphis.

KD was on a team that made the Finals and he got inured in the 2nd round! And swept the West conference Finals (without him!)

Sorry. KD is uber talented and a match up nightmare. But you need smarts and to be a gamer and Dirk owns him.

Maybe this is KD'S year? No excuses surely. He's got another stacked team. Surely they should win it?

[GOATcards]

I love Dirk and he's super underrated but it's not disrespectful to put KD above him. Most people would.

KD has 6 1st Team All-NBA selections. Dirk had 4. Even if KD retired after this season, he'll have the same amount of ASG as Dirk (with Dirk given one) and 1 fewer All-NBA selection.

KD also finished second in MVP voting in multiple years, Dirk didn't. As bad as KD's team have been in the postseason, Dirk was the only one with a number 1 seed losing in the first round.

re All-NBA selections, Dirk was contemporaries with Tim and KG

who are KD's leading contemporaries at the F position (well, Bron for one)

Dirk does rank several spots higher in career playoff VORP than MVP shares (and his MVP-share competition were mainly Tim, Kobe, & Nash; Durant has had some pretty loaded competition there, though his MVP-shares prime was mainly against Bron and he hasn't been much in there since Curry/Harden primes IIRC)

[49ersSF]

Durant certainly has a right to be mentioned in the conversation. It's ridiculous to think any different.

Kareem and KD are probably the two most unstoppable offensive players in the history of the game. KD could end up the 2nd leading scoring in NBA history. He was a part of one of the NBA's great dynasty's. A career 50/40/90 NBA player who dominated. He has all the credentials to be mentioned in the conversation.

[mfw13]

Durant needs to lead a team to a title to get into the GOAT conversation.

Otherwise he's merely one of the 25 best players of all time.....

[drobfan8]

Durant certainly has a right to be mentioned in the conversation. It's ridiculous to think any different.

Kareem and KD are probably the two most unstoppable offensive players in the history of the game. KD could end up the 2nd leading scoring in NBA history. He was a part of one of the NBA's great dynasty's. A career 50/40/90 NBA player who dominated. He has all the credentials to be mentioned in the conversation.

Kareem is on another tier to KD. Come on now.

KD has one single finals run to his name without the GS run. You know, the team that made the finals without him and won before and after him.

Scoring is cool. Do you rank Carmelo as high? He could score too.

[drobfan8]

Typically I think KD is underrated.

But comparing him to GOATs I think he's way overrated

[sportzluvr1]

KD is a great player but GOAT? Is he even in the top 25 all time?

Are you okay?

[the mesiah]

Not GOAT conversation status , he would have to build that resume lot more ..needs 4 more self made chips ,Finals mvps , 38K plus points and then he has a solid case

[49ersSF]

Kareem is on another tier to KD. Come on now.

KD has one single finals run to his name without the GS run. You know, the team that made the finals without him and won before and after him.

Scoring is cool. Do you rank Carmelo as high? He could score too.

I do not rank Carmelo anywhere even remotely near Kareem or KD. Carmelo was a volume shooter. He only shot 44% for his career. His scoring average was more reflective of the volume of shots. In terms of offensive players he was more one dimensional while being exceptional in that one area he could be shut down. Kareem and KD are players that defenses gnerally had no answer too. They were unstoppable of the offensive end. What makes KD the greatest offensive player ever in my book is that KD is exceptional in just about every area of the offensive game. If he played more selfishly, he'd have averaged 35 to 40 a game most seasons of his career. KD was/is unstoppable on the offensive end.

[JumpshotMcGavin]

For me, I'd put KD around Top 15-20.

[asujbl]

He better score 25 tonight or he’s garbage

[imbluestreak23]

Durant doesn’t realize he’s in the same category as Bron.

That's how I see it.

Shame others don't. But medically there are legit blind people.

[Nomad]

can we distinguish between playing GOAT and non-playing GOAT?

Then KD's statement starts to make sense. He says I am better than Harden or CP3 or Steph and this playoff will be a statement to prove this.

I still think the dramatic nature of his foot on the line 2-point playoff drill with Brooklyn alone starts to give him consideration.

[JRX]

GOATs don't wreck franchises

[Dereth]

Durant, like lebron does himself no favours when he seemingly is telling us how good he is, instead of letting everyone else decide. Granted i get he probably feels slighted because everyone constantly makes excuses against his greatness.

People don’t want to hear it but Durant is closer to bird as far as individual achievements are concerned than someone like dirk.

Durant: Championships x 2, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP x 1, all-star games x 13, all nba x 10 (6 - 1st, 4 - 2nd), scoring titles x 4, 50-40-90 club x 2 and ROY

Bird : Championships x 3, finals MVP’s x 2, league MVP’s x 3, all-star games x 12, all nba x 10 (9 - 1st, 1 - 2nd), 50-40-90 club x 2, all nba defensive team x 3 (2nd teams) and ROY

Durant career numbers: pts 27.4 rebs 7.0 assists 4.4
Bird career numbers: pts 24.3 rebs 10.0 assists 6.3

They almost have identical shooting percentages as well.

I’m taking Bird for what it’s worth but I think the point is Durant feels like he should be in the discussion with the greats. If you look objectively you could definitely make an argument to put him at the tail end of the top 10. He’s not for me but I can see a convincing argument based on numbers alone. That’s kind of the point I believe. Too many people making ridiculous claims that he’s not even a top 25 all time.

The fact that you’re talking about numbers alone says it all. You have to put numbers in the context of the era that they were put up in.

[GOATcards]

can we distinguish between playing GOAT and non-playing GOAT?

Then KD's statement starts to make sense. He says I am better than Harden or CP3 or Steph and this playoff will be a statement to prove this.


https://media1.tenor.com/m/pT2f9iZy1w8AAAAd/lebron-james-los-angeles-lakers.gif

[Asian62150]

can we distinguish between playing GOAT and non-playing GOAT?

Then KD's statement starts to make sense. He says I am better than Harden or CP3 or Steph and this playoff will be a statement to prove this.

I still think the dramatic nature of his foot on the line 2-point playoff drill with Brooklyn alone starts to give him consideration.

If you have to distinguish between GOAT or greatest that is playing in the 2023-2024 NBA season (GTIPIT20232024NS), spoiler alert: You're not in the GOAT debate.

[asujbl]

He was straight garbage last night if that helps

I know they won. He sucked

[asujbl]

Yes I am exaggerating. I needed 25 from him on FD

Relax nerds

[Torro]

Talent and offensive skill wise he is one of the greatest to ever play basketball, it just has not translated into titles yet. I say yet as he is still baller, the last couple suns games he total took over and killed it, he still at that top level and suns have a pretty good team to potentially reach finals and titles.

[GOATcards]

Talent and offensive skill wise he is one of the greatest to ever play basketball, it just has not translated into titles yet.

:doh:

[Dragnet]

Anyone surprised by the sale tonight of his Topps Chrome RC Orange in PSA 10? Here is the sale: https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/12744

Have attached the most recent sales dating back to the boom. That said, I couldn’t believe it went for what it did ($11,100). Less than 10% of the boom high! Whatever negative you want to say (and I tend to agree the GOAT discussion is a bit nutty) he is still #20 all time in win shares, and likely to rise (could very well see him retire in top 10 if he stays healthy), is a bonafide top 10 player of all time in his prime. Less not forget 14x AS, 2x Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 4x Scoring Champion and one regular season MVP.

Would love to hear takes on this sale as a reflection of his status and what appears to be a potentially genius investment (unless I missed something!).

[Nomad]

Theoretically he should dominate tomorrow, going up against a b2b Pacers. But I would not place a bet on it.

[Kobefan]

can we distinguish between playing GOAT and non-playing GOAT?

Then KD's statement starts to make sense. He says I am better than Harden or CP3 or Steph and this playoff will be a statement to prove this.

I still think the dramatic nature of his foot on the line 2-point playoff drill with Brooklyn alone starts to give him consideration.

What does the last two letters of GOAT stand for?

[Nomad]

I don't think Durant is of the generation that fully understands the term.

Anyway, he has already posited Kobe as his 2 and LeBron as his third. Meaning that his view of "all time" is what he has personally experienced on the court.

[hermanotarjeta]

I don't think Durant is of the generation that fully understands the term.

Anyway, he has already posited Kobe as his 2 and LeBron as his third. Meaning that his view of "all time" is what he has personally experienced on the court.

I didn’t know KD was a Bron ball buster?

[jfan2024]

KD is so unaware it's ridiculous. He needs to win 1 real championship. As it is, years from now after he retires he's going to end up below guys like Wade or Dirk. Doesn't matter if he's a better player on talent, he needs at least one meaningful ring to be relevant in any such conversation

[yiguiri2002]

I was thinking, what needs to happen for him to be in the conversation? This is what he needs IMO until he retires:

1 title (while being the team's best player)
1 Finals MVP
3 All-NBA
3 All-Star
Top 5 point scorer

I don't think that'll put him in the GOAT conversation but it gets him to the next group

[duron]

I wonder if there’s some kind of book or research underway that can tell him what “greatest” means.

[kd the sniper]

I wanna see kd_the_sniper's case for kd as goat.



user avatar:

https://www.blowoutforums.com/image.php?u=73161&dateline=1681341977Michael Jordan is the g.o.a.t and it's not even close, imo!
Kevin Durant is my favorite player to watch and to collect.
As far as that, KD is my goat..
enjoy

Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk

[hermanotarjeta]

I wonder if there’s some kind of book or research underway that can tell him what “greatest” means.

I think KD has been reading "Lebron James, a biography".

[fabiani12333]

I think KD has been reading "Lebron James, a biography".

I think KD idolizes Lebron and has tried to copy him.

[kd the sniper]

I think KD idolizes Lebron and has tried to copy him.I'd rather have Kd in a shootout anyday

Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk

[hermanotarjeta]

I think KD idolizes Lebron and has tried to copy him.

It really shows.

[GOATcards]

for those who like a scorched earth approach

FuCojKebI84

[cms11]

Not looking good for KD.

[tjforce]

Right now I'm putting KD on the "Hobby Pump Mt Rushmore".

Just imagine, someone called his PSA 10 Topps Chrome base a "Buy" at $11,000 in a hobby advice video.

[mfw13]

It's simple....KD has to lead a team to a title.....that's what pretty everyone else in the GOAT conversation has done.

Yes, he won two Finals MVP's with the Warriors, but he was the second/third wheel on those teams.

[daeve]

Not looking good for KD.

it's telling that 22yo Ant is a better leader.


https://streamable.com/n32hiu

this Wolves team is kryptonite to them too. Ant, NAW, Conley, and Slender Mac all terrific iso perimeter defenders and all of KD/Book/Beal just passing it off to each other looking for their shots.

[rhigh2390]

It's simple....KD has to lead a team to a title.....that's what pretty everyone else in the GOAT conversation has done.

Yes, he won two Finals MVP's with the Warriors, but he was the second/third wheel on those teams.

He was the best player on those teams, but it was Steph's team. Very interested to hear how he could have been the third wheel? Lol

[tjforce]

He was the best player on those teams, but it was Steph's team. Very interested to hear how he could have been the third wheel? Lol

Absolutely.

He was the best player. But it was a rare situation where it wasn't his team. He was just the best hired gun in NBA history.

[Asian62150]

Again, KD is one of the most talented scorers in NBA history. Maybe the most talented. A walking bucket.

But in terms of leadership and competitiveness, he's nowhere near the GOAT conversation.

He's still had an incredibly successful career. Not everyone is cut out to be a leader. And that's ok.

[asujbl]

Again, KD is one of the most talented scorers in NBA history. Maybe the most talented. A walking bucket.

But in terms of leadership and competitiveness, he's nowhere near the GOAT conversation.

He's still had an incredibly successful career. Not everyone is cut out to be a leader. And that's ok.

Tell that to my gambling

Dude isn’t a walking bucket anymore

He’s a walking X on every SGP I place

[Asian62150]

Tell that to my gambling

Dude isn’t a walking bucket anymore

He’s a walking X on every SGP I place

:cry:

[Torro]

It's simple....KD has to lead a team to a title.....that's what pretty everyone else in the GOAT conversation has done.

Yes, he won two Finals MVP's with the Warriors, but he was the second/third wheel on those teams.

Second or thrid wheel winning back to back finals MVPs? Maybe if Durant did not join the GSW then Lebron would be with 6 rings and GSW would be more known for being the team Lebron cavs beat (like Jazz in MJ legacy), has this ever crossed your mind? :coffee:

KD might be the most talented scorer of all time, but he definitely does not have the competitive mindset like Jordan and Kobe (okey Lebron also in this category). But still, KD greatness is at that level also in terms of playing the game and scoring.

[imbluestreak23]

Speaking of careers that also won't age gracefully. My goodness

[pete2345]

He should have stayed with the Warriors steph could have gotten him at least 1 more ring.

[boxbuster7]

between the brooklyn disaster and now the suns mess durants legacy is looking worse and worse by the day - and I still have a gold standard patch autograph of him /3 - ouchie

[jhssketchcards]

https://media1.giphy.com/media/yjsFVgC8FXbcu5qjHM/giphy.gif


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rhigh2390]

Embarrassing. His legacy just continues to take hits. Still an all time great, but he should have more success given his talent.

[razorsharp]

Embarrassing. His legacy just continues to take hits. Still an all time great, but he should have more success given his talent.

He honestly looks washed in this series.

[ninjacookies]

I'm the biggest KD prodder on here, but circumstances are a thing.



Bron still putting up all-world offensive numbers at 39.


Slim Weeper still upright in an NBA jersey following an achilles tear.


Giveth their flowers.

[rats60]

I was thinking, what needs to happen for him to be in the conversation? This is what he needs IMO until he retires:

1 title (while being the team's best player)
1 Finals MVP
3 All-NBA
3 All-Star
Top 5 point scorer

I don't think that'll put him in the GOAT conversation but it gets him to the next group

Lol. More like

4 more Titles
4 more Finals MVPs
4 more Regular Season MVPs

In other words he is never going to be in the GOAT conversation.

[minnesotachill]

I'm a huge KD fan, so it's hard to watch the Suns come up short. Clearly a team that needs a starting PG, not Beal on the team.

The quality of talent and teams these days is crazy. The days of one player being able to dominate the game are long gone.

Curry, Lebron and KD on the brink of finishing the season with a combined 0 playoff wins.

This would be unheard of just a few years ago as any one of these three could practically walk on the court and win a few games just by themselves.

[jcardstore]

I'm a huge KD fan, so it's hard to watch the Suns come up short. Clearly a team that needs a starting PG, not Beal on the team.

The quality of talent and teams these days is crazy. The days of one player being able to dominate the game are long gone.

Curry, Lebron and KD on the brink of finishing the season with a combined 0 playoff wins.

This would be unheard of just a few years ago as any one of these three could practically walk on the court and win a few games just by themselves.

It’s the end of an era

[Chris P]

I'm a huge KD fan, so it's hard to watch the Suns come up short. Clearly a team that needs a starting PG, not Beal on the team.

The quality of talent and teams these days is crazy. The days of one player being able to dominate the game are long gone.

Curry, Lebron and KD on the brink of finishing the season with a combined 0 playoff wins.

This would be unheard of just a few years ago as any one of these three could practically walk on the court and win a few games just by themselves.

It's funny how out of the 3 Curry gets the biggest pass and the Warriors got blown out in the 1st play in game. Just shows how unlikable KD and Lebron are I guess

[KhalDrogo]

It's funny how out of the 3 Curry gets the biggest pass and the Warriors got blown out in the 1st play in game. Just shows how unlikable KD and Lebron are I guess
That’s 100% the truth. It’s a really hard concept for many in the hobby to understand though.

[rhigh2390]

It's funny how out of the 3 Curry gets the biggest pass and the Warriors got blown out in the 1st play in game. Just shows how unlikable KD and Lebron are I guess

I think Curry gets the biggest pass because his team has far less talent than the other 2. And because he's stayed in GS instead of team hopping.

[msink28]

Yeah, his teammates are cooked. There's not a single guy on that team who can consistently get his points other than Curry.

I think Curry gets the biggest pass because his team has far less talent than the other 2. And because he's stayed in GS instead of team hopping.

[Chris P]

I think Curry gets the biggest pass because his team has far less talent than the other 2. And because he's stayed in GS instead of team hopping.

I still believe that roster should be good enough to be an 8 seed at the very least. Also outside of AD im not a big fan of the Lakers roster at all. I dont think the talent discrepency is that wide between rosters

[pcptrade]

I still believe that roster should be good enough to be an 8 seed at the very least. Also outside of AD im not a big fan of the Lakers roster at all. I dont think the talent discrepency is that wide between rosters

Anthony "Glass" Davis, only if he is available and can play well consistently.

[rhigh2390]

I still believe that roster should be good enough to be an 8 seed at the very least. Also outside of AD im not a big fan of the Lakers roster at all. I dont think the talent discrepency is that wide between rosters

D'Angelo Russell averaged more than the Warriors #2 guy is my point. The Warriors are bad outside of Steph. Just having AD makes it a wide gap between the 2 teams.

Anthony "Glass" Davis, only if he is available and can play well consistently.

Do you admit that AD was available all year this year (played 76 games) and was good all year?

[pcptrade]

Do you admit that AD was available all year this year (played 76 games) and was good all year?

I was not comparing Lakers vs Warriors roster. I just highlighted "Also outside of AD im not a big fan of the Lakers roster at all" and posted that comment. Yes, AD was available all year and played good.

[lebronicle]

I was not comparing Lakers vs Warriors roster. I just highlighted "Also outside of AD im not a big fan of the Lakers roster at all" and posted that comment. Yes, AD was available all year and played good.

LeBron and AD were both elite this season. As was Dlo.

[hermanotarjeta]

The smartest thing KD ever did was choosing to join the warriors instead of Bron in Cleveland.

[Chris P]

The smartest thing KD ever did was choosing to join the warriors instead of Bron in Cleveland.

Of course it was...how would gave cleveland even been able to get him? A sign and trade to gut their roster? They didn't have the cap space. The Warriors were in the perfect situation to get him without dismantling the team. There wasn't a realistic path to get KD. This is why you're just as bad as "Bron Bois". You try to spin every little thing to bash Lebron

[GOATcards]

He doesn't belong in the GOAT conversation but he does belong in the top-12 discussion.

Prime KD was a top 2 player in the league

[hermanotarjeta]

Of course it was...how would gave cleveland even been able to get him? A sign and trade to gut their roster? They didn't have the cap space. The Warriors were in the perfect situation to get him without dismantling the team. There wasn't a realistic path to get KD. This is why you're just as bad as "Bron Bois". You try to spin every little thing to bash Lebron

Some GM’s are simply more talented than other LeGM’s.

[rats60]

He doesn't belong in the GOAT conversation but he does belong in the top-20 discussion.

Prime KD was a top 2 player in the league

Fixed.

[jcardstore]

He doesn't belong in the GOAT conversation but he does belong in the top-12 discussion.

Prime KD was a top 2 player in the league

KD is not a top12 player. Not even top 15

[njsportscardguy]

AANNNDD,...Durant's most recent, 4 game stretch, should be evidence, enough...as to whether his position/perception/belief has any SERIOUS or genuine creedence.

Durant is a HELLUVA' player! No doubt! A HOF'er, for sure. But right off the top of my head, I can name [at least!!] a half-dozen players who AREN'T (obviously),..."the GOAT"....that would absolutely precede his name in any GOAT debate.

[oldgoldy97]

Anthony "Glass" Davis, only if he is available and can play well consistently.

He’s tempered glass: breaks but doesn’t shatter and is still in place.

[zdawgs]

KD needs to watch Bob McAdoo games when he was a Laker and realize that is the role he should be playing on a good team in his late 30s. He is no longer the guy who can carry a team.

[Asian62150]

KD needs to watch Bob McAdoo games when he was a Laker and realize that is the role he should be playing on a good team in his late 30s. He is no longer the guy who can carry a team.

And when KD was able to carry a team, he decided to defer or joined a team that didn't need carrying.

He had the skills to be a top 10, maybe even a top 5 player. But he just didn't get there. His career is pretty interesting. I wonder how many other players had top 5, 10 ability but never made it there for something other than injuries.

[hermanotarjeta]

Is this the thread where all the Bron bois deflect their repressed Bron insecurities out on KD?

[bloodwings19]

K.Durant deserves all the flaks he deserve jumping from one franchise to another. Destroying one to the other. Just couple years ago, his rookie refractor in high grades were in 5 digits.

[Chris P]

Is this the thread where all the Bron bois deflect their repressed Bron insecurities out on KD?

I love it...you can't possibly criticize KD without being a "Bron Boi". Is he always on your
mind 24/7

[hermanotarjeta]

I love it...you can't possibly criticize KD without being a "Bron Boi". Is he always on your mind..because nobody was talking about him

Replace KD with LJ in this thread.

It’s uncanny, but the takes are interchangeable.

Like I said in post #12 in this thread:

“Durant doesn’t realize he’s in the same category as Bron.”

[hermanotarjeta]

And when Lebron was able to carry a team, he decided to defer or joined a team that didn't need carrying.

He had the skills to be a top 10, maybe even a top 5 player. But he just didn't get there. His career is pretty interesting. I wonder how many other players had top 5, 10 ability but never made it there for something other than injuries.

Lebron deserves all the flaks he deserve jumping from one franchise to another. Destroying one to the other. Just couple years ago, his rookie refractor in high grades were in 5 digits.

Here are some examples when you substitute KD with Lebron.

There is accuracy in what I observed.

In Lebron and Shaq’s cases, they could have been number 1 GOATS.

But their behavior and attitudes held back their potential, just like in KD’s case.

These guys are all cases of unfulfilled potential.

[nmh20]

In my opinion, KD is comfortably in the top 20 players to ever lace up a pair of shoes. He is/was immensely talented and also immensely insecure.

KD will never be in the “GOAT” conversation…but if you needed a basket, I’m not sure who I’d rather give the ball to than him. Peak KD was literally unguardable.

[hermanotarjeta]

In my opinion, KD is comfortably in the top 20 players to ever lace up a pair of shoes. He is/was immensely talented and also immensely insecure.

KD will never be in the “GOAT” conversation…but if you needed a basket, I’m not sure who I’d rather give the ball to than him. Peak KD was literally unguardable.

No doubt, KD had some clutch playoff daggers in his heyday.

[Kingofkings1281]

I love it...you can't possibly criticize KD without being a "Bron Boi". Is he always on your
mind 24/7

He’s absolutely obsessed with LeBron. At least half of his posts are about him and he’s been doing this for years.

[jcardstore]

He’s absolutely obsessed with LeBron. At least half of his posts are about him and he’s been doing this for years.

way more than half lol

he's got a serious case of brain worms, literally all he thinks about is lebron. I'm sure he's dreaming about him every night too

[Chris P]

way more than half lol

he's got a serious case of brain worms, literally all he thinks about is lebron. I'm sure he's dreaming about him every night too

Him Tatis and Purdy..the Triad of Evil I guess lol

[no10pin]

No doubt, KD had some clutch playoff daggers in his heyday.

You have the second most posts in this thread about Durant. This is the first one that isn't about LeBron.

[hermanotarjeta]

You have the second most posts in this thread about Durant. This is the first one that isn't about LeBron.

Thank you statman.

You have one post in this Durant thread, and zero posts about Durant.

What’s your take on Durant?

[hermanotarjeta]

Him Tatis and Purdy..the Triad of Evil I guess lol

It’s the pumpinvestorboipalooza!!!

[no10pin]

Thank you statman.

You have one post in this Durant thread, and zero posts about Durant.

What’s your take on Durant?

My take is people are obsessed with the term GOAT, and that Durant doesn't belong anywhere near it.

[pingbling23]

You have the second most posts in this thread about Durant. This is the first one that isn't about LeBron.

Lmao :doh:

[eastbayak]

KD might not be a top 10 player but there's nothing wrong with that. 11-20 has some good players, Kobe/KD/etc.

[jcardstore]

KD might not be a top 10 player but there's nothing wrong with that. 11-20 has some good players, Kobe/KD/etc.

I agree but his legacy leaves a lot to be desired. To me, heÂ’s basically Melo with a couple rings.

On top of being a ring chaser he was just a super soft dude. YouÂ’re one of the best players on earth but youÂ’re worried about trolls with burner accounts on social media?

[Above the Rim]

This last series, Durant just didn't have enough around him. I didn't watch all of the games, but Durant's stats were darn good. It wasn't his fault they got blown out. Yes, you could perhaps make the case he didn't elevate his players around him and bring to the table some leadership - which does count. But overall, Durant played quite well.

[asujbl]

This last series, Durant just didn't have enough around him. I didn't watch all of the games, but Durant's stats were darn good. It wasn't his fault they got blown out. Yes, you could perhaps make the case he didn't elevate his players around him and bring to the table some leadership - which does count. But overall, Durant played quite well.

Wait…

[boxbuster7]

If you think Durant belongs in the top 15 players of all time...let alone the GOAT please call 911 - speaking of GOATS is Russell Wilson 3 still the GOAT?

[TheGoatOfLife]

Durant is my GOAT and I need him to come over and eat some grass so I don’t have to mow it!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[jstephens24]

I agree but his legacy leaves a lot to be desired. To me, heÂ’s basically Melo with a couple rings.

On top of being a ring chaser he was just a super soft dude. YouÂ’re one of the best players on earth but youÂ’re worried about trolls with burner accounts on social media?

do you think he is/was the only player with a burner account?

[jplarson]

You have the second most posts in this thread about Durant. This is the first one that isn't about LeBron.

:cry:

Well done.

[rats60]

I think Curry gets the biggest pass because his team has far less talent than the other 2. And because he's stayed in GS instead of team hopping.

Not listening to Warriors fans. They have Klay Thompson and Draymond Green and trading for Chris Paul made them favorites for the title. Missing the playoffs is easily the biggest fail of the 3. They were champions two years ago, that is a huge fall in a short time.

The Sun's were a two seed who made the finals and the one seed upset by the Mavs in the 2nd round before KD. Adding KD was supposed to bring them a title. Instead they have gone the wrong direction from 64 wins to 45 and losing in the second round then 49 wins and getting swept in the first round, another huge drop off.

The Lakers haven't been competitive since the Bubble. A 7 seed, missed the playoffs, a 7 seed and a 7 seed. Their run last year was fool's gold. There were never besting Denver last season or any of the top 3 this. They only made a run last year due to favorable matchups. After LeBron and AD, their team is garbage.

[Asian62150]

Not listening to Warriors fans. They have Klay Thompson and Draymond Green and trading for Chris Paul made them favorites for the title. Missing the playoffs is easily the biggest fail of the 3. They were champions two years ago, that is a huge fall in a short time.

The Sun's were a two seed who made the finals and the one seed upset by the Mavs in the 2nd round before KD. Adding KD was supposed to bring them a title. Instead they have gone the wrong direction from 64 wins to 45 and losing in the second round then 49 wins and getting swept in the first round, another huge drop off.

The Lakers haven't been competitive since the Bubble. A 7 seed, missed the playoffs, a 7 seed and a 7 seed. Their run last year was fool's gold. There were never besting Denver last season or any of the top 3 this. They only made a run last year due to favorable matchups. After LeBron and AD, their team is garbage.

4-0, 4-1 looks terrible at first glance but the Lakers were pretty competitive against the Nuggets. Most games were close with 5 min to go. Jokic/Murray had to hit some crazy shots for Denver to win. Lakers were leading by double digits in a good number of them. Of course they weren't able to close out any of them (save 1 game) but it wasn't like the Lakers were blown out every time.

I've seen series go to G7 that haven't been as competitive as the Lakers vs. the Nuggets the past 2 years.

The Suns weren't even in most of the games against the Wolves. And yeah, the Warriors completely missing the playoffs is embarrassing.

[rms13]

Where will KD be playing next year? Golden State, NYK, Sixers? Do the Nuggets have enough cap space because I"m sure that will be his number one choice!

[rhigh2390]

Not listening to Warriors fans. They have Klay Thompson and Draymond Green and trading for Chris Paul made them favorites for the title. Missing the playoffs is easily the biggest fail of the 3. They were champions two years ago, that is a huge fall in a short time.

The Sun's were a two seed who made the finals and the one seed upset by the Mavs in the 2nd round before KD. Adding KD was supposed to bring them a title. Instead they have gone the wrong direction from 64 wins to 45 and losing in the second round then 49 wins and getting swept in the first round, another huge drop off.

The Lakers haven't been competitive since the Bubble. A 7 seed, missed the playoffs, a 7 seed and a 7 seed. Their run last year was fool's gold. There were never besting Denver last season or any of the top 3 this. They only made a run last year due to favorable matchups. After LeBron and AD, their team is garbage.

Did you watch the Warriors at all this year? Or even know their situation? Draymond only played in 55 games, Klay was relegated to being a bench player because he has fallen off so bad, CP3 broke his hand and was out for months (not to mention that he was a bench player even when he played), and Wiggins is half the player he was 2 years ago during their title run (everyone knows what Wiggins is by now). Kuminga was their de-facto #2.

The Lakers had the most realistic shot of coming out of the West of the 3. Although the Suns are a close 2nd.

[rats60]

Did you watch the Warriors at all this year? Or even know their situation? Draymond only played in 55 games, Klay was relegated to being a bench player because he has fallen off so bad, CP3 broke his hand and was out for months (not to mention that he was a bench player even when he played), and Wiggins is half the player he was 2 years ago during their title run (everyone knows what Wiggins is by now). Kuminga was their de-facto #2.

The Lakers had the most realistic shot of coming out of the West of the 3. Although the Suns are a close 2nd.

LOL. The Lakers had no shot at coming out of the West. The Warriors were 27-13 .675 the last 40 games of the season.

[no10pin]

.....

[hermanotarjeta]

Any KD to the Lakers rumors floating around?

[cms11]

4-0, 4-1 looks terrible at first glance but the Lakers were pretty competitive against the Nuggets. Most games were close with 5 min to go. Jokic/Murray had to hit some crazy shots for Denver to win. Lakers were leading by double digits in a good number of them. Of course they weren't able to close out any of them (save 1 game) but it wasn't like the Lakers were blown out every time.

I've seen series go to G7 that haven't been as competitive as the Lakers vs. the Nuggets the past 2 years.

The Suns weren't even in most of the games against the Wolves. And yeah, the Warriors completely missing the playoffs is embarrassing.

AD and Lebron played great, but DLo and Rui played like trash.

[BlueXtreme]

4-0, 4-1 looks terrible at first glance but the Lakers were pretty competitive against the Nuggets. Most games were close with 5 min to go. Jokic/Murray had to hit some crazy shots for Denver to win. Lakers were leading by double digits in a good number of them. Of course they weren't able to close out any of them (save 1 game) but it wasn't like the Lakers were blown out every time.

I've seen series go to G7 that haven't been as competitive as the Lakers vs. the Nuggets the past 2 years.

The Suns weren't even in most of the games against the Wolves. And yeah, the Warriors completely missing the playoffs is embarrassing.

I really think the lakers only need 1 or 2 pieces to get over the hump. But then you also need LBJ and AD to stay healthy. The wheels have to fall off at some point.

[KhalDrogo]

I really think the lakers only need 1 or 2 pieces to get over the hump. But then you also need LBJ and AD to stay healthy. The wheels have to fall off at some point.
Sounds like the same narrative thrown out there every year.

[BlueXtreme]

Sounds like the same narrative thrown out there every year.

Because they stuck with the same players they had last year as their main guys. Is what it is.

[Scottish Punk]

Because they stuck with the same players they had last year as their main guys. Is what it is.

Lakers have completely abandoned draft and develop. You are at the mercy of available guys year and year out to fill out the "others". Tough to build a consistent contender that way. Is there anybody other than Christie on their roster who was actually drafted by the Lakers?

[Braswell10]

Lakers have completely abandoned draft and develop. You are at the mercy of available guys year and year out to fill out the "others". Tough to build a consistent contender that way. Is there anybody other than Christie on their roster who was actually drafted by the Lakers?

Lakers are terrible at drafting anyway, so it’s not like it would matter.

[rynobot]

Lakers have completely abandoned draft and develop. You are at the mercy of available guys year and year out to fill out the "others". Tough to build a consistent contender that way. Is there anybody other than Christie on their roster who was actually drafted by the Lakers?

Russell :coffee:

[Scottish Punk]

Russell :coffee:

I guess that technically counts. Even though there has been six years and 3 teams in between stints, ha ha.

[cms11]

Lakers are terrible at drafting anyway, so it’s not like it would matter.

They had Podz and Whitmore fall to them, but took JHS. Make it make sense.

[cms11]

Because they stuck with the same players they had last year as their main guys. Is what it is.

What bugs me most is that they know DLo chokes, but gambled on him anyway. The Blazers would have traded Ant Simons for relatively cheap, but nope, they stuck with Mr. Anti-Clutch.

[jcmel323]

Lakers have completely abandoned draft and develop. You are at the mercy of available guys year and year out to fill out the "others". Tough to build a consistent contender that way. Is there anybody other than Christie on their roster who was actually drafted by the Lakers?

That's the lebron effect. In order to make him happy, you have to use anything available for more talent. Lakers feel the pressure.

Exactly the reason he won in Cavs. Cleveland had all the young assets and developed players and lebron was the ultimate piece.
You can also say that about Miami (outside the big 3 , there was already a system and culture) and made it easier to win.

It's all about the system and the situation. You can't force a team to get better. KD Brooklyn and Phoenix teams were never a system. Just 3 superstars trying to make it happen.

[jcmel323]

KD, Bron and Curry are getting old. You cant have older players around them. It will never work. You need young players especially defensive minded players + a system already in place.

KD or Bron in Miami (one of them, not both) will have a huge impact on the team. The Heat are always losing by a lot at the start of 4qtr. It's always the same. They need a superstar that could hold the game close until the 4th qtr. Then its all Spoelstra mental coach.

I don't even remember a playoff game when the Heat lost to celtics when the game is close by 5 or less (only the crazy derrick white half second shot at the buzzer). Besides that, Heat had won all games close vs BOS.

Basically BOS need to beat the Heat by double digits or you'll lose.

[fabiani12333]

I really think the lakers only need 1 or 2 pieces to get over the hump. But then you also need LBJ and AD to stay healthy. The wheels have to fall off at some point.

Surpringly, both LeBron and AD set Lakers highs in games played this season -- 71 for LeBron and shockingly 76 for AD; a career high.

[KhalDrogo]

Surpringly, both LeBron and AD set Lakers highs in games played this season -- 71 for LeBron and shockingly 76 for AD; a career high.
Not that surprising. They couldn’t take all those games off they used to unless they wanted to forgo the end of season awards and money that comes with them. Sad it had to come to this, but bravo to the NBA for forcing these players to play.

[rms13]

the Goat should be the best player on multiple championship teams. KD has proven when he's the best player on his team they usually get bounced in the first round.