The NBA has always been in awe of Kevin Durant and his abilities as a player. Almost everyone knew in his rookie year that he was destined to be an All-Star and a Hall of Famer in the future. Understandably, he won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2008. Recently on a podcast, a seasoned NBA reporter discussed KD’s legacy in the league as it stands today in the NBA. He had high praise for the 13-time All-Star while mentioning how criticism from legends like Charles Barkley was unfair.

In 2022, Charles Barkley mentioned how KD needed to win a championship while being the “bus driver“, implying that the 2014 NBA MVP had to win a championship as the leader of a team before being called an All-Time great. Recently, ESPN journalist Brian Windhorst disregarded such arguments, while showering praise on Durant and speaking for his legacy.

Brian Windhorst on the impact of Kevin Durant on the NBA

In the recent episode of the Dan Patrick Show, Brian Windhorst was asked about Kevin Durant’s legacy in basketball. The seasoned ESPN reporter was of the opinion that KD deserves more praise than he currently gets. Windhorst cited examples of how without the Slim Reaper many of his teams would be in shambles. According to him, the Golden State Warriors missed out on the 2019 NBA title due to the 13-time All-Star’s injury.

Moreover, the ESPN reporter strongly disagreed with Barkley’s assessment of Durant’s legacy, with a statement that might not please the Philadelphia 76ers legend.

“The concept to me that Durant was ‘riding at the back of the bus’ to use Charles Barkley’s [words], with all due respect, I just don’t think that’s true,” said Windhorst. He further added, ” I think Durant was riding Shotgun with Steph Curry…Then in 2019, the Warriors lost because Durant got hurt. I think their case is better if they go against the supreme Kawhi Leonard in 2019 and then roll the Raptors over 4-1. But excuse me my good friend, they lost Durant and they couldn’t win. I don’t think his legacy needs an Iota.”

Windhorst went on to further mention how he understands the pressure felt by Durant due to this constant criticism. However, the ESPN analyst mentioned that the only mistake KD had made was playing in teams who weren’t “serious” about winning the championship.

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KD’s painful time in the NBA since his exit from the Warriors

When KD decided to leave the San Francisco side in 2019, the NBA world was in shock and wondered how the Dubs would fare without him. However, the case has been quite the opposite since his departure as KD has struggled to get hold of another ring.

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The 13-time All-Star was traded to play for the Brooklyn Nets, but over the years his teammates haven’t really clicked with him. Kyrie Irving wasn’t really ever in the MVP form that he used to be. Additionally, James Harden had a short stint at the NY side which was met with disappointment. However, recently after being traded to the Phoenix Suns, KD believes that the team could win its maiden NBA title.