Kevin Durant NETS Debut Full Highlights vs Wizards | December 13, 2020 NBA Preseason [VIDEO]
Kevin Durant Makes Long-Awaited Return to the Court in Brooklyn Nets Debut During Preseason Game
After 18 months of recovery and rehabilitation, Kevin Durant made his highly anticipated debut with the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. It was during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards. This marked Durant’s first NBA game since suffering a devastating Achilles injury during Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals while playing for the Golden State Warriors.
Durant’s return to the court has been one of the most talked-about comebacks in NBA history. The Achilles injury is notorious for ending or significantly altering the careers of many athletes. However, Durant’s performance showed that he may still be the dominant force he was before the injury. In his debut with the Nets, Durant scored 15 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists in 24 minutes of action. Thus, helping the team secure a 119-114 win over the Wizards.
“Anxious and Nervous,” But Ready to Compete
Durant spoke openly after the game about the emotions surrounding his return to basketball. He acknowledged feeling anxious and nervous, especially after spending so much time away from the game.
“I was anxious, nervous,” Durant admitted. “I visualized this moment for so long — nine, 10 months of thinking about how it would be, this next phase of my career.”
The 12-time All-Star’s first points in the game came on a powerful dunk, a signature Durant move that brought fans to their feet. His ability to deliver right from the start showcased that he has not lost his confidence or athleticism, despite the serious injury that kept him sidelined for the entire 2019-2020 season.
Durant also connected well with his new teammates, including DeAndre Jordan. Durant assisted him on a dunk early in the game. His passing and scoring abilities were on full display in tonight’s game. So, he reminded everyone why he is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.
A New Era in Brooklyn: Durant and Irving Lead the Charge
Durant’s debut with the Brooklyn Nets has marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Alongside star guard Kyrie Irving, who also made his return after undergoing shoulder surgery in February 2020, the Nets have one of the most dynamic duos in the league. Irving finished the game with 18 points in 18 minutes of play.
The preseason is meant to serve as a warm-up. However, both Durant and Irving showcased their skills and chemistry on the court. Thus, giving fans a preview of what’s to come during the regular season. Irving’s performance, despite his decision not to speak with the media following the game, was efficient and effective, shooting 7-of-9 from the field.
For head coach Steve Nash, the preseason opener was an opportunity to gauge where both players stood in their recovery. Nash was pleased with how Durant looked on the floor and praised his remarkable progress following such a serious injury.
“When you have that type of injury, it is kind of remarkable he’s at the level he’s at,” Nash said after the game. “It’s amazing. This is an injury that very few people have conquered. … It’s beautiful to see him back on the basketball court.”
Durant’s Return: A Significant Milestone in His Career
The significance of this game cannot be overstated. Durant’s Achilles injury was widely considered one of the most challenging setbacks an athlete can face. However, his return with the Nets has proven that he remains a top-tier player in the NBA. While his focus remains on achieving peak performance during the playoffs, his first game back was a clear success.
“I want to play at the highest level of basketball — the highest intensity of basketball, and that’s not in the preseason,” Durant said after the game. “I want to play at an elite level late into the season, playoffs. That’s when I want to play my best basketball, so I’m working toward that point.”
Durant’s performance was solid, but he acknowledged that he is still working toward fully regaining his form. Nevertheless, his ability to score, assist, and defend showed that he is on the right track. Durant even drew a charge on Washington’s Rui Hachimura early in the game, proving that he is not shying away from contact.
Amare Stoudemire’s Role in Durant’s Return
Durant’s comeback also highlights the important role that the Brooklyn Nets’ coaching staff, including former NBA All-Star Amare Stoudemire, has played in his recovery. Stoudemire, who joined the Nets as an assistant coach under Steve Nash, has contributed to the team’s player development, particularly with the big men like DeAndre Jordan.
Stoudemire’s experience as a former All-Star and his own history of overcoming injuries provided additional insight for Durant as he navigated his recovery. Stoudemire was in the same situation as Durant a decade earlier, as he too dealt with the challenges of returning from serious injury. Also, he similarly left the Phoenix Suns for the New York Knicks in 2010, as KD did with the Warriors for Nets.
The addition of Durant and Irving, along with a deep roster and strong coaching staff, places the Nets in a prime position to make a deep playoff run during the upcoming season.
A Look Ahead: What’s Next for the Brooklyn Nets?
As the Nets prepare for the 2020-2021 regular season, expectations are sky-high. With Durant and Irving leading the charge, Brooklyn is considered one of the favorites to compete for the Eastern Conference title and, potentially, an NBA championship. Durant’s health and performance will be key to the team’s success. After all, he was key in the Warriors’ success.
While Sunday’s game was only a preseason matchup, it was a critical step in Durant’s journey back to dominance. His return to the court brings excitement not only to Brooklyn but also to basketball fans around the world who missed watching him compete at the highest level.
With Durant back in action, the Brooklyn Nets are ready to contend for their first-ever NBA title. The road to the playoffs begins with Durant’s promising return, and the world will be watching.