Ever since he arrived in the NBA, Charlotte Hornets rookie Brandon Miller has been constantly compared to NBA veteran Kevin Durant, fresh off his rookie year. Tonight, the Phoenix Suns emerged victorious over the Hornets, but guess who took note of the young rookie? The Slim Reaper himself.

In the post-game interview, when asked about Brandon Miller’s development at this point in the season, KD replied, “Usually around this time, February, March, April, is when guys start to understand the game a little more and coaches put them on positions to learn and get better and that’s always the best way.”

“He’s been getting a lot of attention right now….especially late games that they’ve been playing tougher opponents, they’ve been playing better lately so its only gonna be good for his development.” Looks like young Miller is settling into the NBA nicely, according to KD.

Rook v. Vet: Miller & Durant

In tonight’s showdown, Suns’ superstar Durant racked up 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Devin Booker had a double-double with 21 points and 11 assists, leading the Suns to their 107-96 victory. On the other side of the court, rookie Brandon chipped in with 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist, while teammate Vasilije Micić bagged 21 points, 3 assists, and 1 rebound.

After their last match-up, young Miller posted a picture of him and Durant on the court. The Slim Reaper, in his ever-comedic nature, commented, “Nah nah, I got him next game.” Their first-ever match-up ended with the Suns scoring 133 points to the Hornets’ 119. While Miller bagged 20 points, 3 assists, and 1 rebound for the Hornets, KD chipped in with 21 points, 11 assists, and 4 rebounds.

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At 21 years old, Miller, the Hornets’ 2nd overall pick, has exceeded expectations. NBA insider Mark Medina even sees shades of Kevin Durant and Paul George in his game. Miller has marked his spot as a starter and a scoring leader, averaging 16.5 points per game (3rd among rookies), while shooting a respectable 43.9% from the field and 37.8% from three. He also contributes 4.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 31.7 minutes per night.

While Kevin Durant’s college stats were more staggering (25.8 points, 11.1 rebounds on 47.3% shooting), it’s worth noting he played in a different era. In his rookie NBA season, Durant averaged 20.3 points with a higher usage rate (28.3%) and more minutes (34.6).

ESPN’s Greenberg said, “He reminds me of Kevin Durant when he was at Texas. Obviously, Kevin Durant (is) one of the greatest players in the NBA, but if you look at how these guys play: Both can really shoot the basketball, play without the basketball. Look at the release point, see how they get the ball above their head, create separation, really can knock down a three. Over 40% from the 3-point line.”

He continued, “Their ability to put the ball on the floor at 6-8, 6-9, get to the rim, finish with the left hand, extend and finish. Kevin Durant, Brandon Miller both have that ability. And they’re both terrific athletes in the open floor. … I’m not saying Brandon Miller is Kevin Durant, but he’s got a lot of similarities at the same stage of his career. This dude is different.”

Looks like Charlotte’s 2nd overall pick from the 2023 draft has been paying off, exceeding expectations in a way reminiscent of the veteran Slim Reaper!

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