Kevin Durant told a reporter exactly what he thought about a question regarding his low shot count after the Rockets beat the Celtics. The superstar did not like being asked why he took so few shots on Monday night. He defended his role by saying the team won the game, not him. The Rockets won 109-93, but the focus stayed on Durant’s quiet offensive night.
The Reporter Got Shut Down
In the victory against Boston, Durant scored only 12 points while shooting 5-of-6. He also grabbed three rebounds and dished four assists. This was his season low for points. A reporter from the Houston Chronicle asked about his limited number of shots. The interaction turned heated as Durant adopted a defensive stance. He asked the reporter, “Why does that matter to you? We won the game,” per the New York Post. He also asked if the reporter was watching him all game or just had a solo camera.
The Rockets star did not let up when the reporter tried to explain the question again. “What does that have to do with anything?,” the Rockets star said. He noted that Jabari Smith Jr. had 30 points in the last game but only 14 on Monday. Durant asked if the reporter would talk about Smith’s variety too. Durant has taken 10 or fewer shots in four of the most recent eight games. He is averaging 20.8 points per game this season.
Spreading the Floor Is The Job
Durant eventually explained how his presence helps his teammates even when he does not shoot. He said his spot on the court forces the defense to shade guys toward him. This opens up the floor for everyone else. “My presence alone is impactful to the game of basketball,” he said. He added that he does not have to dribble or shoot to cause a reaction from the defense. His teammates are taking advantage of that space.
With a 7-1 record, the Rockets share the top NBA standing with the 76ers. The team does not need Durant to score 30 points to win. They need him to draw the defense and let others score. The highlight reel points do not matter when the clock hits zero and the team is ahead.
Durant is fifth on the all-time scoring list in NBA history.
