Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images
On Sunday Kevin Durant extended his streak of games with at least 25 points to 28 games. No active player in the NBA has had more consecutive games with at least 25 points in their career than Durant’s current streak. LeBron James, the NBA’s leading scorer, did it 21 games in a row in 2008. Allen Iverson also did it in 27 in a row from Jan. 12-March 9, 2001. Durant’s current streak is the longest since Michael Jordan had 40 straight games of 25 or more points in the 1986-87 season. His Oklahoma City Thunder have won 9 straight and are 20-8 during Durant’s streak. “It’s just me being aggressive,” Durant said. “It’s cool, but I’m glad we got nine in a row. That’s a first for me in my career and I’d rather have that.”
The Thunder host the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. The last time the Thunder played them, Durant led all scores with 38 points(on 12-20 shooting/ 11-14 from the free throw line) and the Thunder won. In order for Kevin Durant to win the MVP, he must accomplish something that LeBron James, or any other NBA player hasn’t done in recent history. That accomplishment is going 41 games straight with 25 or more points. The Thunder must also win the majority of these games or all of this will be worthless.
Durant has scored 25 or more against the next 13 opponents the Thunder face except for the Toronto Raptors who the Thunder have yet to play this season. The 13 games are attainable and with Russell Westbrook, stepping up his game, it makes it that much easier for Durant to score 25. There isnt a player in the NBA that could “shut-down” Durant. His height and quickness are a rare mix, like Tracy McGrady when he was young, but two inches taller.
Sure LeBron and Kobe are the front-runners for the MVP, but they have solid veteran players surrounding them. Durant is coached by Scott Brooks….enough said. Kevin Durant for MVP!
