Kevin Durant put on a solid performance for the Phoenix Suns in their 125-116 win against the Dallas Mavericks.
The 36-year-old added 21 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists on the night, while shooting 53.3% from the field against an injury-riddled Dallas Mavericks.
In what was a key clash in their push for a play-in spot, the Phoenix Suns needed the best from KD and their other stars as a loss would further deteriorate their chances of a top ten finish.
The two-time NBA champion played the most minutes in the game and made sure he would help his side get beyond the line.
His display comes just a day after Skip Bayless shared his view on KD and stated the former MVP seemed to be ‘mentally semi-retired.’
After a much-needed win, Durant took to X to respond to the outspoken sports analyst.
Kevin Durant slams Bayless after his semi-retired tweet about him
At 36, KD is still one of the best players in the NBA and can certainly play at a high level.
He is averaging 26.9 PPG and 6.1 RPG on 52.9% shooting from the field this season, which shows how good he has been despite his team’s struggles this season.
In response to Bayless’ video, Durant tweeted: “F___ it, We’re both washed, it was a great run.”
Durant’s response was a subtle dig at Bayless, whose time on television with Fox Sports came to an end after last season, post which he has started his own YouTube channel.
The Slim Reaper shared another tweet where he questioned what ‘semi-retired’ meant.
“Mentally semi-retired. One u skip Stan’s, explain what that means like I’m in 3rd grade please,” his tweet read.
View Tweet
A fan commented below saying: “When you’re coasting and giving 75% effort on average like you been doing. Not hungry like you used to be back in OKC. Kinda like Rodgers on the Jets”
Durant took exception to the fan’s comment and replied: “Yea you’re delusional and a hater.”
View Tweet
Kevin Durant can lead the Suns to the playoffs
Durant has not enjoyed any success since he made the move to the Suns in 2023.
After two early playoff exits, a lot was expected from the team this season, but they have failed to fulfill any expectations with many believing the Suns are the biggest disappointment of the season.
KD has managed to add some great numbers, while Devin Booker has also stepped up on some occasions, but it is the decline of Bradley Beal that has been one of the reasons behind the Suns’ poor form.
However, KD will be hoping to keep all the disappointment behind and lead the way from the front for the remainder of the regular season.
The team are three games behind the Mavs, who are tenth seed, but Suns also have one of the toughest schedules to finish their campaign.
They will need the best of Durant and also help from his co-stars if they are to have any chance to make it to the play-ins and the playoffs from there.
