During his three-year stint with the Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant experienced winning his first NBA championship and Finals MVP. He also formed a bond with his teammates and the city that he helped win two titles, which is why his on-court return to the Bay Area for the first time since joining the Nets is one of the most anticipated games of the season.
The Nets-Warriors game at the Chase Center on Saturday, however, will be played without fans, something which the 10-time NBA All-Star regrets, according to Alex Schiffer of The Athletic.
Kevin Durant on his return to Golden State: "It's a shame the fans won't be there."
— Alex Schiffer (@Alex__Schiffer) February 12, 2021
After missing the Nets’ last three games for COVID-19 health and safety protocols, Durant practiced with the team and will be fully available for the game against Golden State. The game against his former team is the first of an important five-game trip against playoff contenders in the Western Conference, including the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers, and Los Angeles Lakers.
But even if he plays for a Nets team fighting for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, the 32-year-old has taken notice of former Warriors teammate Stephen Curry’s strong start this season.
Kevin Durant said Stephen Curry is shooting it as well as he's ever had.
— Alex Schiffer (@Alex__Schiffer) February 12, 2021
In 26 games, the two-time MVP is averaging 30 points per game while adding 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.3 steals while shooting 49 percent from the field and 43.5 percent from beyond the arc. Curry is coming off a 40-point explosion against the Orlando Magic in the Warriors’ 111-105 win, during which he knocked down 10 three-pointers.
With both Durant and Curry playing well for their respective teams, Saturday's game between Brooklyn and Golden State could very well live up to its billing as one of the season’s most anticipated contests.
