NEW YORK — The Brooklyn Nets‘ Kevin Durant couldn’t help but laugh as he rolled over the Orlando Magic during Monday night’s 109-102 win.
No, seriously.
In the midst of scoring 45 points, Durant laughed during a play in the first quarter when Magic guard Kevon Harris got a little too close for comfort defensively. Durant simply ducked under Harris and scored on a short runner off the backboard. It was a strong play on a night full of them, when the 34-year-old superstar also racked up seven rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks in 39 minutes — on top of shooting 19-for-24 from the field.
“[Harris] was just extra physical using his hands,” Durant said. “It was legal, but it was just a lot. I was wondering if the ref was going to call something; he didn’t. He let us play on, and I just thought it was funny how physical he was; but we’re all just having a good time playing the game.”
Durant was having plenty of fun throughout the evening, including in his postgame interview with YES Network, during which he was asked when he anticipates having an impressive night.
“When I wake up,” Durant said.
“When I wake up.”
-KD on when he knows he’s in a rhythm 😂 pic.twitter.com/YnvjgiKeF1
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 29, 2022
In his postgame news conference, Durant demurred — with a smile on his face.
“I only said that because [Milwaukee Bucks guard Jevon Carter] said that earlier this year when he had his career high in [Oklahoma City]. Somebody asked him the same question, so I was paying homage to him. But you really don’t know, I really don’t know. I’ve had games where I shot incredible in warm-ups and had the worst shooting night that night.”
Durant’s teammate Kyrie Irving admitted there are times he has to laugh in awe at some of the things Durant is able to do on the court.
“All the time,” Irving said. “I think it’s a natural reaction when you’re seeing something special occur in front of you. You do your best to still be engaged, but it’s hard not to just stare and watch somebody that’s that special and talented. We know what he’s capable of, when he shows his talent like he did tonight, it’s definitely an honor to be a part of. Grateful to be his teammate.”
Source: www.espn.com