WATCH: Kevin Durant-Russell Westbrook appears to be exchanging intense words with each other in the Suns vs. Clippers playoffs
Game 2 of the Phoenix Suns vs. LA Clippers series was nothing short of electrifying, with former OKC Thunder teammates Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant right in the middle of the action. As the Suns started running early in the second half, the Clippers called a time-out and Westbrook went to his bench as Durant, clearly cheered, started talking some trash.
KD and Russ exchange a few words 🍿 pic.twitter.com/Q6TJitXMQw
– Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 19, 2023
This interaction was just one example of the rivalry between the two former MVPs seen throughout the series. There’s clearly no love lost between the former teammates, and they’ve been at each other’s heels since the beginning of the series.
Later in the first quarter, Westbrook defended Durant as they battled for position inside the arc. Despite Westbrook’s near-successful attempt to steal the ball, Durant was able to recover and drive to the basket. However, Ivica Zubac was there to stop Durant’s drive, forcing the Suns superstar to stop and take a jump shot.
Despite Westbrook’s tough defense, Durant was able to parry the shot. But in a display of sheer rush, Westbrook came out of nowhere to deflect Durant’s shot, showing off his incredible defensive skills. Westbrook’s defense and hustle were critical components to the Clippers’ success in the series and they were important factors in their Game 1 win over the Suns.
In fact, Westbrook’s block against Devin Booker’s late layup in Game 1 resulted in a turnover that ultimately helped secure the Clippers’ win. Though Westbrook struggled with his shooting in Game 1, his incredible defense and zeal on the court were largely responsible for the Clippers’ playoff success.
In the end, it’s clear that Westbrook and Durant’s competitive fire will continue to play a significant role in the series. As the Suns try to even the series against the Clippers, Westbrook’s defensive skills and relentless pursuit of the ball will be critical to their success. And as the former teammates go head-to-head, fans can expect nothing less than an intense and thrilling duel.
Kevin Durant strikes back: Superstar looks to beat playoff struggles and lead Suns to victory
Kevin Durant’s historic regular-season performance was overshadowed by his team’s Game 1 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, leaving his playoff record looking bleak. The Suns forward has lost his last seven playoff games and won just one of his last ten. Durant still averaged 31.9 points per game during that stretch, but his efficiency was below his usual standards, shooting 44% from field and 33% from three-point range.
Kevin Durant performed well after losing Game 1 and tied the series 1-1. He scores 25 points and had won 6 rounds and 5 assists in Game 2. While the Suns are too good to be swept, Durant could face criticism for his playoff record if he doesn’t lead them past the first round.