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Kendrick Perkins hits out at ‘disrespectful’ New York Knicks over Kevin Durant, he’d be an upgrade on one star

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 8:47 PM ET

The Kevin Durant trade saga continues dominating NBA headlines with his potential destinations sparking endless debate.

Recent reports indicate Durant has narrowed his preferences to San Antonio, Miami, or Houston while rejecting Minnesota’s advances.

The New York Knicks reportedly dismissed Durant’s initial interest in joining the franchise. This decision has created significant controversy across the basketball community.

Perkins thinks Durant would be an upgrade for Karl-Anthony Towns

NBA insider Kendrick Perkins delivered a scathing criticism of New York’s decision to pass on the future Hall of Famer. Perkins believes Durant would represent a clear upgrade over current star Karl-Anthony Towns.

“The Knicks are being disrespectful saying ‘no interest’. Who the hell are you?

“What have you won in the last 52 years, to turn down the top 15 greatest player of all time, one of the greatest scorers to ever touch the damn basketball, a guy that could still give you 27 to 30 points a night in his damn sleep,” Perkins stated.

“Who are you for the New York Knicks to say they have no interest in Kevin Durant?

“Here’s the question you got to ask yourself, if it is Kevin Durant or Karl-Anthony Towns, is Kevin Durant an upgrade? You damn right, he’s an upgrade from Karl-Anthony Towns.”

Photo by David Berding/Getty Images

The numbers back up Perkins’ controversial take

Perkins argues New York’s preference stems from personal relationships rather than basketball logic. The statistical comparison between Durant and Towns supports his argument.

Last season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Meanwhile, Towns posted 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. Despite playing forward, Durant even collected more blocks than the center Towns.

“See, the problem is, it’s not just about the business. It’s about the personal relationship with Karl-Anthony Towns,” Perkins explained.

Championship experience could be the missing piece for New York

“It’s a special relationship there, and it’s a special bond, because if it was about fitness and the betterment of this team, of the Knicks organization, and who’s the better basketball player, then you make the move,” Perkins continued.

While defense isn’t Durant’s strongest attribute, neither player excels on that end of the floor. What Durant brings that Towns cannot is championship experience and proven playoff success at the highest level.

Perkins’ argument centers on Durant’s superior scoring ability and two NBA championships, elements the Knicks desperately need in their quest for their first title since 1973.

The franchise’s loyalty to Towns may ultimately cost them a chance at landing one of the game’s all-time great scorers.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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