Can't get it done in the playoffs? The team went from their first playoff appearance last season (and played well against L.A. in that series I might add) to winning the first two rounds this year and making the WCF where they lost to the eventual NBA champs. Individually, Durant scored 28.6 points per game (in over 42 minutes per contest I might add), and had 8.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.0 blocks, and 0.8 steals per playoff game as a kid who's not even 1.5 years older than Gordon Hayward. Think about that. Durant's just 22 years old and leading his team to the WCF. I don't see this as luck of the draw like we had with a young Deron in his first year as the starter who just happened to get Golden State in the 2nd round. Were the Grizz the #8 seed too? Sure, but as I see it, they weren't just riding some wave.
I see this as the natural arc that most young studs take en route to their first ring. Jesus, it took Jordan years 'til he got it, the team around him evolved AND they had the right coach in there. The taste of some playoff success and his own natural improvement, Westbrook and Ibaka and Harden's improved games, a healthier Perkins and an improved bench here or there should do wonders for them. The fact that I am even defending him and that you say he leaves a lot to be desired boggles my mind. I'm not saying his games is beyond improvement but find me one other player under 25 who you'd rather have. Derrick Rose? Sure, I'll give you that. Who else?
