Kevin Durant can’t become an NBA symbol because he lacks team leadership

Kevin Durant, one of the most talented players in NBA history, has carved out a legacy as a two-time NBA champion, league MVP, and one of the most lethal scorers the game has ever seen. However, despite his immense talent and accolades, Durant has never been universally celebrated as the face of the NBA. While players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James have held that mantle, Durant remains a polarizing figure who, for various reasons, hasn’t achieved the same level of widespread admiration and recognition as the league’s definitive top star.

The Case for Durant’s Talent

It’s important to acknowledge Durant’s immense contributions to the game of basketball. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his size, agility, and skill, makes him a generational talent. His career achievements include:

• Two NBA Championships with the Golden State Warriors.
• Two Finals MVP Awards, showcasing his dominance on the biggest stage.
• Four scoring titles, solidifying his reputation as one of the best offensive players in league history.
• An NBA MVP Award in 2014, which highlighted his all-around excellence.

On the court, Kevin Durant is nearly unmatched in his era, but being the “face of the NBA” requires more than raw talent.

What Prevents Kevin Durant from Being the NBA’s Top Star?

Perceived Lack of Leadership

Critics often argue that Durant hasn’t demonstrated the leadership qualities required to be the face of the league. While players like LeBron James are known for galvanizing their teams and being vocal leaders, Durant is perceived as more introverted and less commanding in team dynamics.

• Golden State Warriors: Durant’s tenure with the Warriors brought championships, but his role was seen as supplemental to an already dominant team led by Stephen Curry. Critics argue that Curry, not Durant, was the true leader of those championship teams.
• Brooklyn Nets: Durant’s time with the Nets was marked by controversy and instability, including Kyrie Irving’s off-court issues and James Harden’s departure. Durant’s inability to keep the team united raised questions about his leadership skills.

Questionable Off-Court Decisions

Durant’s off-court choices, including his social media behavior and team decisions, have often overshadowed his on-court brilliance.

• The Golden State Move: Leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder to join the 73-9 Warriors is still one of the most criticized decisions in NBA history. Many viewed it as a move to take the easiest path to a championship, tarnishing his image as a competitor.
• Social Media Feuds: Durant’s frequent spats with fans and media figures on Twitter have painted him as overly sensitive. Incidents like the infamous burner account controversy have reinforced the narrative that he cares too much about what others think.

Lack of a Defining Narrative

To be the face of the NBA, a player often needs a compelling story that resonates with fans. Michael Jordan’s relentless competitiveness, Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality,” and LeBron James’ journey from high school phenom to global icon all provided narratives that endeared them to fans.

Durant, despite his immense talent, hasn’t cultivated a similarly compelling story. His career has been marked more by decisions to join established teams rather than forging his path as a leader who builds success from the ground up.

The Public Perception of Kevin Durant

The perception of Durant as a player who takes the “easy route” has significantly impacted his ability to be seen as the league’s top star. Many fans believe that his championships with the Warriors don’t carry the same weight as those won by players who led their teams to victory under more challenging circumstances.

Social media has also played a significant role in shaping Durant’s public image. His frequent engagement with critics and media figures often comes across as defensive, detracting from his accomplishments on the court. While his honesty and willingness to engage are appreciated by some, they’ve also made him a polarizing figure.

Comparing Durant to Other NBA Icons

Michael Jordan

Jordan’s leadership, competitiveness, and six championships earned him the title of the NBA’s greatest player. His dominance on the court and ability to elevate his teammates made him a global icon.

LeBron James

LeBron is celebrated not only for his basketball achievements but also for his leadership, philanthropy, and influence off the court. His ability to unite teams and carry them to championships, even under challenging circumstances, sets him apart.

Stephen Curry

Curry is often credited with revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting. His leadership of the Warriors during their dynasty years has solidified his legacy, even alongside Durant.

In comparison, Durant’s legacy is often framed by his decisions to join superteams and his struggles to establish himself as the unquestioned leader of his teams.

The Road Ahead for Kevin Durant

At 35 years old, Durant is now part of the Phoenix Suns, a team with championship aspirations. Teaming up with Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, Durant has an opportunity to redefine his legacy by leading the Suns to their first NBA championship. A successful run with Phoenix, particularly if he serves as the clear leader, could shift the narrative surrounding his career.

Potential Redemption

Durant’s performance with the Suns will be closely scrutinized. If he can deliver a championship to a franchise that has never won an NBA title, it could go a long way toward elevating his status and silencing critics.

While Kevin Durant’s talent is undeniable, his perceived lack of leadership, controversial decisions, and polarizing off-court behavior have prevented him from being universally celebrated as the face of the NBA. Unlike players such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, or Stephen Curry, Durant has struggled to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with fans and elevates him to iconic status.

Durant’s legacy, however, is still evolving. As he continues his career with the Phoenix Suns, he has the chance to rewrite the story of his career and cement his place among the league’s all-time greats. Whether he can overcome the factors that have held him back remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Kevin Durant’s journey is far from over.