Kevin Durant has been watching the landscape of the NBA shift since he got hurt. He saw wings like Kawhi Leonard and LeBron James win championships. He saw Giannis Antetokounmpo dominate as a 2-time MVP and the Defensive Player of the Year.

Considering how Durant uses these examples as motivation, he must be dying to get back on the court and prove his mettle to all his naysayers.

Brooklyn Nets GM Sean Marks affirms that Durant and his teammates are excited to have him back, and how KD impressed him while rehabilitating.

“I don’t think anybody is more excited than Kevin himself to get back out on the court. He’s mentioned numerous times that he cannot wait to hopefully be back in Barclays and wearing the Nets jersey and being out there.”

Marks added. “And I think I’ve said this a couple of times before, it’s been nothing short of remarkable to watch Kevin’s development and the way he’s attacked his rehabilitation over the course of the last year.

“We’re all champing at the bit and very excited to see him out here, see the entire group out there, but again I think that pales in comparison to how he’s feeling.”

Kevin Durant on the return warpath

KD is quite possibly the most gifted scorer of this generation. His efficiency and volume are unparalleled in the modern era.

However, a lot of the credit he has earned is often lost due to his past moves. Leaving the OKC Thunder for the 73-9 Warriors will always be looked down upon. As a result, KD doesn’t get full credit for his 2 Finals MVP awards.

Considering the yardstick that he is measured to, (LeBron James) just won a fourth title, KD will be hell-bent on getting to 3. He will play in the Eastern Conference on one of the strongest teams. But it isn’t like when he was in the Warriors.

Safe to say, the Brooklyn Nets will not fail to entertain this season. Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving should be a recipe for success if KD actually comes back well from his injury. Evidently, his teammates and GM think he will be just fine.