Kevin Durant is proving age is just a number at 37. In the Houston Rockets’ recent win over the Memphis Grizzlies, Durant finished with 33 points and 8 rebounds – marking his third consecutive 30+ point game. With this streak, KD became the fifth player in NBA history to score 30+ points in three straight games after turning 37, joining the legendary company of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, and Karl Malone.
Durant has been on fire:
Jan. 22: 36 points (5 threes) in a 128-122 OT loss to the Philadelphia 76ers.
Jan. 23: 32 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons, snapping Detroit’s four-game win streak.
After the Detroit victory, Durant praised the Rockets’ staff:
“We’ve got a great coaching staff. Great training staff. They keep me ready. They keep me engaged, mentally and physically.”
This season, Durant is averaging 36.9 minutes per game through 42 contests – his second-highest mark since his 2013-14 MVP season. He said:
“I feel great. That’s what I’m paid to do. I get paid 50-something million dollars to be available and play, and be there for my team whenever they need me to be there, so it’s on me to prepare the right way so I can be ready for 40-plus minutes. I’m preparing for 48 minutes a night.”
Durant is currently averaging 26.4 points per game (top 15 in the league). At this level, his 16th All-Star selection looks almost certain – and well-deserved. From his 2007 rookie season to now, Durant has consistently played at an elite level, building one of the most decorated careers in NBA history: championships, Finals MVPs, scoring titles, and unmatched skill.
No one knows how much longer Durant will play, but one thing is certain: he leaves everything on the floor every night. This season, he has a real chance to lead the Rockets on a deep postseason run and chase another title – a fitting chapter for one of the greatest ever.
Rockets Nation – what do you think Durant finishes the season averaging? Can he carry Houston to the Finals? Drop your thoughts below! Go Rockets!