After witnessing how good Kevin Durant played in the recently concluded NBA Finals, many have been impressed with him and even compared his production in those five games to some of the best in league history. Warriors legend Rick Barry chimed in on the conversation and gave his thoughts on where the eight-time All-Star’s performance ranks compared to other legendary players.
The 73-year-old recently appeared on KNBR 1050’s The Audible, and gave a lot of credit to Durant for helping the Dubs secure their second championship in three years. Barry had nothing but good words to say and even called his Finals performance as “one of the best ever.”
“He’s a heck of a player and a really good person, as well. I’m really happy for him and his mom, all the garbage he had to put up with — and he got the last word.”
The 1975 Finals MVP then discussed the numbers Durant produced and how complete his game is, which is not common for all players.
“I mean, you average over 30 points a game in a Finals? In the record books, there have very few players who have ever done that in the history of the game. and it wasn’t just that,” Barry said a day after Golden State won its second title in three years. “He had high rebound numbers, he did great with his assists, which is an area of his game he’s improved on tremendously, and taken his game to another level. but the thing about him is, that he’s unguardable. … He’s just such a well-rounded player. He can do everything.”
Barry then said that he thinks the Warriors can continue to be successful in the coming years if Durant continues to lead the team, and also remain healthy.
“As long as they stay healthy and stay together, this team could be a dominant force over the next five or six years, without question. I hope that happens because it would be fun to watch.”
With the dominance the Dubs have shown in this year’s postseason, it will be hard to imagine them not being able to replicate their success next year. However, they must first make sure they can keep their core intact and even add additional pieces to their roster if they’ll have a chance to do so.
Follow Us
Subscribe