Kevin Durant, a prominent figure in the NBA, is on the verge of achieving a significant milestone that could see him surpass the legendary Kobe Bryant on the all-time scoring list. As of now, Durant ranks fifth with 32,597 regular-season points, while Bryant retired with 33,643 points, placing him just over 1,000 points behind the Lakers icon.
Durant's scoring prowess has been evident throughout his career, and his recent performance in the 2025–26 NBA regular season, where he accumulated 2,026 points, has put him in a position to potentially eclipse Bryant's record during the 2026–27 season. His trainer, Dash Lovell, recently shared insights on Durant's mindset regarding this achievement.
In an interview, Lovell emphasized Durant's deep respect and admiration for Kobe Bryant. He stated, "Kevin has got so much respect for Kobe, and so much love for him. It’s like being there with your brother. I think it’ll be an exciting moment for him. It’s a moment of respect. Kevin played the game the right way. He takes fewer shots." This sentiment highlights the bond Durant feels towards Bryant, who has been a significant influence in the basketball community.
Durant's scoring statistics reflect his efficiency on the court. Over his career, he has averaged 27.1 points per game, taking 18.6 shots and making 5.1 three-pointers, with an impressive shooting percentage of 50.3% from the field and 39.2% from beyond the arc. In comparison, Kobe Bryant averaged 25.0 points per game on 19.5 attempts, showcasing a different style of scoring that was equally effective during his career.
Lovell also noted that Durant does not view surpassing Bryant as a personal goal. Instead, he focuses on efficiency and performance. "I don’t think passing Kobe or passing anyone is a goal for him," Lovell remarked. "It’s just him being efficient. I’ve never heard him say, ‘I’m going to pass this’ or ‘I’m going to pass that.’ Those are never things you’re going to hear him say." This perspective underscores Durant's commitment to his craft and his desire to play the game the right way.
Moreover, Lovell pointed out Durant's exceptional skill set, which includes his footwork and array of post moves. He likened Durant's playing style to that of Bryant, noting, "They know how to play in tight spaces. People are going to have to double all the way to stop them. That’s the influence that you see right there. They also both play out of the midrange a lot." This comparison illustrates how both players have mastered the art of scoring in various situations.
As Durant continues his career at the age of 37, the prospect of surpassing Bryant's scoring total remains within reach, provided he maintains his health and scoring efficiency. While he may not actively seek to overtake Bryant's legacy, the possibility adds an intriguing narrative to the upcoming NBA season, as fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Durant can achieve this remarkable feat.
Leave a Comment