Kevin Durant, the prolific scorer, made his return to Barclays Center on Wednesday night, reflecting on his time with the Brooklyn Nets and emphasizing that pondering what could have been is “pointless.”
The Reality of the Situation
Durant, who contributed 33 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds in the Phoenix Suns’ 136-120 victory over Brooklyn, dismissed the idea of dwelling on alternate scenarios. He stated unequivocally, “I mean, that’s just a pointless exercise, in my opinion, to think about what could have been.”
At the final buzzer, the Nets lose to the Suns in Kevin Durant’s return to Barclays Center by a score of 136-120. Cam Thomas had 25 points and Mikal Bridges had 21 points. The third quarter was the back-breaker for the Nets in this one as Phoenix’s size was just too much to beat.
— Sharif Phillips-Keaton (@SharifKeaton) February 1, 2024
Limited Time Together
Addressing the limited time he, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden spent together on the court, Durant highlighted the challenge they faced, stating, “We didn’t have enough time together. That’s just it.”
Focus on Enjoyment and Contribution
Despite the ups and downs during his tenure with the Nets, Durant expressed his enjoyment of coming to work, playing for the community, and representing Brooklyn. He underscored the importance of the work put in individually and as a team.
Success Defined Individually
When asked about the perceived success of his time with the Nets compared to his previous stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Golden State Warriors, Durant emphasized individual accomplishments. He mentioned being an All-Star, leading vote-getter, jersey sales, achieving a 50-40-90 shooting split, averaging 30 points, and making All-NBA teams.
Team Success vs. Individual Growth
While acknowledging the distinction between team success and individual growth, Durant urged a nuanced perspective. He defended his individual growth, asserting, “I’m on my way to mastering the game. I think coming here helped me, pushed me far closer to that. So that’s what I try to take from my time here.”
Tribute Video and Fan Reception
Despite requesting no tribute video, Durant received one from the Nets, leading to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Durant acknowledged the class of the organization and expressed his respect for how they appreciate everyone who has worn the jersey.
Looking Ahead with the Suns
For Durant, the focus is now on the Phoenix Suns and their potential for a deep playoff run. He highlighted the team’s progress and continuity-building, expressing optimism about their future performances.
Mikal Bridges shooting free-throws before facing the Phoenix Suns tonight in Kevin Durant’s return to Barclays Center for the first time since he was traded at last season’s trade deadline. pic.twitter.com/AWJjtOvVmT
— Sharif Phillips-Keaton (@SharifKeaton) February 1, 2024
Durant’s return to Barclays Center showcased his scoring prowess and left a lasting impression on the Nets’ fans, emphasizing the importance of individual growth and the optimism surrounding his current journey with the Suns.
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