Kevin Durant is already one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, but this season, the Golden State Warriors star has transformed into one of the most imposing defenders in the league as well. His defensive prowess was in full display on Christmas Day as he helped limit LeBron James to 20 points on 7-of-18 shooting, and finished with five blocks.

Durant’s Warriors teammate, reigning Defensive Player of the Year Draymond Green, believes Durant is finally getting more respect for that part of his game. However, he thinks Durant would get a lot more praise if he were primarily a defender and not a historically great offensive player as well.

“(Durant’s) getting more respect, as of late, about his defense,” Green said per Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area. “But if he was someone that just played defense, it would still be more.

“But you’re doing Kevin Durant a disservice if you just talk about his defense because he’s so good offensively. He’s getting more credit for it, which is great, but it’ll never overshadow his offense.”

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Green is probably right in his assessment that Durant's defense would be that much more revered if he weren’t such an otherworldly scorer. It’s the same with Michael Jordan, who's one of the most ferocious perimeter defenders of all-time, but his ability on that end of the court will always be overshadowed by his amazing offensive prowess.

Nevertheless, Durant is undoubtedly gaining the respect he deserves for his improved defense. LeBron James has already praised Durant’s defense, and voters for end-of-the-year awards should also show Durant some recognition if he continues his outstanding defensive play all season long.