Kevin Durant has had a difficult few years when it comes to injuries. While KD was considered an injury risk when he first entered the NBA, especially due to his big size and slender frame, Durant’s injury issues became more prominent later in his career, especially when he was in Golden State.
KD doesn’t seem to be too concerned though, saying he is ready to play big minutes. After the Nets' win over the Mavs, ahead of the Nets’ game against the Rockets, Durant addressed his minutes, and the concerns around his injury history, but quickly dismissed them, saying he could play big minutes just to show that he can do it.
"When I get to play, yes. I know people may be concerned about my minutes and I got injured and all that extra sh*t... But I might play 48 tomorrow. Just cuz."
Durant’s first major injury only came in 2019, when he tore his Achilles during the NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors. Durant left the Warriors to join the Nets that year and spent the entire first season on the shelf. He came back the next season and looked even better than he had before.
But Durant did suffer smaller relapses during the season and spent some time away due to a muscle strain. But he recovered and made a return for the NBA playoffs. Because of Durant’s recent injury history, people believe that he should be handled with care, and not be playing such high minutes on a regular basis.
The Nets have every right to be careful with Durant and not overextend his minutes if they feel that could be risky and could aggravate his injury concerns going forward. But KD is confident and has the power to call his shots with the team. Hopefully, Durant knows how good his body is doing and is making the right call.
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