Kevin Durant being mentored by Karl Malone

Oct 30, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) is defended by Utah Jazz small forward Mike Harris (33) during the second half at EnergySolutions Arena. Oklahoma City won 101-98. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) is defended by Utah Jazz small forward Mike Harris (33) during the second half at EnergySolutions Arena. Oklahoma City won 101-98. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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The game of Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant doesn’t really emulate that of Karl Malone, but the Utah Jazz legend has become an intricate part of the MVP’s life.

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That’s the word from Kevin Durant himself who told Esquire he’s become very close to Karl Malone and that the two speak rather often.

“I’ve gotten close with Karl Malone, who’s called me numerous times when he can see on TV that I’m struggling, feeling bad after a loss. He can tell.”

Malone has most recently worked with the Utah Jazz as a ‘special consultant’ though given the rumors surrounding Kevin Durant’s upcoming free agency, maybe he’ll be getting a phone call and job from the New York Knicks and Washington Wizards?

In all seriousness, it’s nice to see legendary players like Karl Malone extending a helping hand to the current elite of the NBA. Few can relate with Durant and his immense popularity and while Karl Malone may have never been on his level, he can certainly give the forward direction.

It’s the second time Kevin Durant has made news this week regarding a former NBA player as he previously suggested Allen Iverson was ‘pound-for-pound’ the greatest player in league history.

That might be something many find issue with, though, Iverson was a pretty special talent during his prime.

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