Rashad McCants asserts that Kevin Durant will surpass LeBron James as a better basketball player in the long run.
Rashad McCants recently expressed a bold opinion on the ongoing debate between LeBron James and Kevin Durant, asserting that Durant will ultimately be remembered as a better basketball player than LeBron. McCants made these comments on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, stating:
“I think that real hoopers know that Kevin Durant is gonna go down as a better basketball player than LeBron at the end of the road, not right now.”
“When you look at LeBron, Steph, and KD, the promotion between Steph and LeBron, it’s here [wide]. KD’s here [narrow]. I don’t know if he’s presentable [and] marketable but they have more commercials.”
“The real hoopers know that Kevin Durant is gonna go down as a better basketball player than LeBron at the end of the road.”
– Rashad McCants
(🎥 @GilsArenaShow )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 22, 2023
McCants delved into the marketing and promotion aspects, suggesting that despite being on the same level as LeBron and Stephen Curry in terms of skills, Durant’s promotional reach is narrower. He pointed out that LeBron and Curry have led their teams to championships, contributing to their elevated status in the eyes of many.
Arenas joined in the discussion, attributing the perceived gap in legacy between Durant and LeBron to the media’s role, particularly focusing on Durant’s decision to leave the Oklahoma City Thunder. Arenas argued that the media plays a significant role in shaping the narrative around players and that Durant’s legacy suffered when he left OKC.
Both McCants and Arenas acknowledged the impact of playing in big-market cities on a player’s recognition and legacy, highlighting LeBron’s success in Los Angeles. They suggested that the media tends to favor teams in large markets, contributing to the perception of certain players.
The conversation also touched on Durant’s current stint with the Phoenix Suns, a small-market team. Arenas speculated that Durant might gain more recognition if he concludes his illustrious career in a larger market.
Despite the differing opinions on Durant’s legacy compared to LeBron’s, both players are acknowledged as future Hall of Famers. Durant, in his 17th NBA season, continues to showcase outstanding performances, averaging 31.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game for the Phoenix Suns.
The ongoing debate between LeBron James and Kevin Durant is a testament to the enduring impact these two basketball legends have had on the sport, and their eventual enshrinement in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is inevitable.
Will Kevin Durant Finish Ahead Of LeBron James On The All-Time List?
The debate about who will finish ahead in the all-time rankings between Kevin Durant and LeBron James is a perennial one among basketball enthusiasts. Both players have etched their names in the annals of NBA history, and their individual brilliance contributes significantly to this ongoing discussion.
From a scoring perspective, Durant is often hailed for his scoring prowess. His jump shot is widely regarded as one of the most lethal in the game, with an unmatched range that allows him to score from almost anywhere on the court. Durant’s offensive skills, especially his ability to shoot over defenders, give him an edge as a pure scorer. However, LeBron’s scoring ability should not be undermined. While he may not have Durant’s shooting finesse, LeBron’s physicality, finishing at the rim, and overall offensive versatility make him a force to be reckoned with.
When it comes to statistics, the comparison between Durant and LeBron reveals remarkable similarities. Durant’s scoring may stand out, but LeBron’s all-around contributions, including rebounding, playmaking, and defensive skills, set him apart. LeBron’s defensive versatility and basketball IQ contribute significantly to his overall impact on the game.
Accolades play a crucial role in the all-time ranking debate. LeBron’s trophy cabinet includes four MVP awards, four NBA titles, and four Finals MVP awards. In contrast, Durant trails slightly in these categories, needing three more MVPs, two more NBA titles, and two more Finals MVP awards to match LeBron’s accolades. Closing this gap seems like a formidable task, especially considering Durant’s age and injury history.
Durant, at 35, has battled significant injuries throughout his career, raising concerns about his longevity in the league. On the other hand, LeBron, at 39, has shown remarkable durability and continues to perform at a high level. While both players have dealt with the injury bug, LeBron’s reliability as a long-term option seems more promising, allowing him potentially more years to add to his legacy.
In conclusion, while Durant’s scoring ability is often lauded, the well-rounded skill set and accolades of LeBron James make it challenging for Durant to surpass him in the all-time rankings. LeBron’s sustained excellence, combined with his durability, gives him the edge in this enduring debate among basketball aficionados. However, the unpredictability of sports and the ongoing careers of both players ensure that the debate will persist until their respective retirements.