With several key Nets players out due to COVID, Brooklyn superstar Kevin Durant has been forced to log extended minutes to give the Nets a chance at winning. Durant has recorded an average of 41 MPG in his last five games. Brooklyn is making sure to capitalize off of his usage rate when he’s on the court as he minutes get ramped up, more wins get racked up.
A large part of his effectiveness stems from his offensive and defensive production along with his leadership. As a result, Brooklyn still sits with the best record in the East at 21-8.
Before the team’s victory on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers, Nets head coach Steve Nash confessed that he doesn’t feel comfortable with Durant playing such heavy minutes.
“I don’t know that we can continue to lean on him the way we have. It doesn’t feel right. I know he’s enjoying it. I know he’s enjoying playing at the rate he’s playing at and trying to bring his teammates along with him and all the responsibility that he has accepted … Basically it’s just been incredible, but at the same time we know that’s not safe or sustainable. There’s going to be a lot of consideration and (we) want to figure out a way to give him breaks.”
What coach wouldn’t feel this way? However, it’s not like Brooklyn has a choice right now. It’s an emergency period for the Nets, and to be fair, Durant was campaigning for more minutes just a couple weeks ago.
Once the full roster is back, Durant will have the luxury to rest and watch on with his team having a great chance at winning games. Best believe Durant has to play 40+ minutes if needed against the elites despite the full roster being back when the time comes. The ultimate goal that must be kept in mind is that once the first seed is secured, resting Durant can be prioritized before the start of the playoffs.
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