Warriors expect more from Durant

NBA News – Kevin Durant has been asked to provide more rebounding and rim protection with the Golden State Warriors than he typically did with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

“He’s playing more four and playing in smaller lineups – Oklahoma City generally stayed pretty big when Kevin was there — which changes his responsibility,” said Steve Kerr. “We need him in there rebounding, boxing out, covering up the paint and penetration, so it’s a little different vibe for him.”

Kerr was asked how Durant is adjusting.

“He’s been good, he’s been inconsistent,” Kerr said. “I think there have been times when he’s locked in and he’s blocking shots and rebounding, and then there are other times where he’s sort of forgotten he’s a four and he’s drifted out of the paint a little bit. It’s all part of the learning process.”

“It’s definitely different for him,” Draymond Green said. “It’s an adjustment, and he’s in Year 10 now, I think, and hasn’t done much of that his entire career. But K.D. is a very smart guy. It’s something I know he’ll figure out and get better at. He’s a competitor, which is most important. Those things will come with time. He’s one of those guys who loves a challenge, and wants to continue to get better.”

Category: Basketball