After playing three years alongside him, Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant knows what it's like to go one-on-one against a legitimate perimeter hound in Andre Roberson.
Durant found out what it's like to be in the opposite side of the fence for the first time last season, as the two got into a heated altercation among the animosity stemming from his sudden departure in the summer of 2016, but the respect has remained there.
In light of his recent season-ending ruptured patella injury, Durant noted his injury is a big hit for the team, given the quality defender that he is.
“Yeah, by far,” Durant said, according to Melissa Rohlin of the San Jose Mercury News. “Probably the best. His lateral release, quick. He’s got long arms and strong. He’s just smart. He’s just an athlete, one of those athletes who enjoy trying to keep up with the fastest and best players. He takes that challenge on. They’re definitely going to miss him on the defensive side of the ball.”
The Finals MVP said he reached out to him as soon as he learned of the injury, offering his support through this rough stretch.
“I talk to him,” Durant said. “I shot him a text and try to give him some encouragement and let him know I’m here if he ever needs to talk or anything because I’ve been through it, you know, injuries and how you feel when you’re going through them. Just try to give him somebody else to lean on if he needs some advice or just some encouragement. I’ll always be here for him.”
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