Thunder star Kevin Durant returns vs. Jazz
The NBA will get Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant back Monday at Utah.
The Thunder managed to tread water in Kevin Durant’s absence, going 3-3 in his six missed games. However, head coach Billy Donovan will surely rejoice in getting his star back for Monday night’s matchup versus the Jazz.
Durant, the subject of intense free-agency rumors in anticipation of a tumultuous upcoming offseason, has the ability to transform the Thunder with his return. The team immediately becomes less reliant on star point guard Russell Westbrook to initiate the offense and, of course, Durant vastly improves the team’s perimeter shooting.
Somewhat surprisingly, the Thunder have also missed Durant on the defensive end of the floor. OKC has been torched by opposing wings in part because of increased minutes form Anthony Morrow and DJ Augustin. His return will provide the Thunder with much-needed defensive length on the wing.
Thunder fans are still taking a wait-and-see approach with new coach Billy Donovan. He’s been criticized by many fans for his decision to play Kyle Singler big minutes in spite of his poor production. Most fans are willing to be patient with Donovan’s performance, and his rotations until he has his full compliment of players. Obviously, Durant’s insertion into the lineup changes Donovan’s rotations significantly.
More from FanSided
- Joe Burrow owes Justin Herbert a thank you note after new contract
- Chiefs gamble at wide receiver could already be biting them back
- Braves-Red Sox start time: Braves rain delay in Boston on July 25
- Yankees: Aaron Boone gives optimistic return date for Aaron Judge
- MLB Rumors: Yankees-Phillies trade showdown, Mariners swoop, India goes to Seattle
It should lead to less minutes for Singler, Augustin and defensive specialist Andre Roberson. The return of Thunder role players to reduced roles commensurate with their talents should help Donovan imprint his style on the team. Once Durant is back and at full speed, fans will expect to see his more egalitarian offensive system pay dividends.
Fans across the nation can fire their League Pass subscriptions up tonight to watch one of the NBA’s best players hit the floor. The only question for Durant and Thunder fans is how many games he’ll be able to play moving forward. Is Durant now injury-prone or just unlucky?