Kevin Durant Carries Brooklyn Nets on a Victory against Bucks, 'Slim Reaper' Posts Historic Playoff Triple-Double
Kevin Durant got the Brooklyn Nets and co-stars James Harden and Kyrie Irving on his back after posting a historic playoff triple-double performance, carrying the Nets into a Game 5 victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, 114-108, taking a 3-2 lead in the series.
KD is Back
The Game 5 victory at home saved the Nets season, avoiding a possible elimination game at Milwaukee in Game 6. With their title hopes on life support, the Nets pulled a come-from-behind win over Milwaukee in the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night courtesy of Durant's monster performance.
According to AMNY, Durant delivered 49 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists during their home victory. The 'Slim Reaper' became the first player in NBA playoff history with at least 45 points, 15 boards, and 10 assists in one game. The 14-year-veteran put the Nets on his shoulders with a historic triple-double in front of the sellout crowd of 16,067 at Barclays Center.
Moreover, Durant poured 20 points in the final quarter that enabled the Nets to outscore the Bucks 33-21. The Nets fought back from a 17-point third-quarter deficit to take over in the series at 3-2 before Thursday's Game 6 in Milwaukee, ESPN reported.
In addition, NBA Veteran and Durant's teammate, Jeff Green, emphasized how Durant made big plays for their team in the final minutes of the game, which resulted in their victory. Green also mentioned that Durant carried them throughout the whole game, and that's the Kevin that he knows.
Green also added that despite the injuries that he had been through the years and to come back from an Achilles injury is amazing. He also added that the world is seeing once again the best player in the world, and it is amazing to see. Green also scored 27 points on 8 of 11 shooting, 7 of 8 from deep. He did all of his contributions off the bench.
The Nets' Supporting Crew
Furthermore, with Kyrie Irving injured, Harden shook off a tight hamstring that he'd suffered 43 seconds in the series opener. Harden was not his usual self during the game, but he managed to dish out eight assists, snatch six boards and give his team an emotional boost with his return.
During the interview, Harden emphasized that it is the playoffs and his team needed him, which is why he played in Game 5. The most important thing for him right now is the 'W' in their column.
Durant also shared that he personally went to Steve Nash, the head coach of the Nets, and Jacque Vaugh, the assistant coach, and asked them if he needs to come out because he wants to play every minute in the game.
Nets head coach also praised Durant for carrying the Nets all throughout the game. Nash was amazed how Durant pulled off a historic performance in Game 5. He also shared that he knows what Durant can do, but to do it in a game where they were down and injured amazed him.
Also, Nash said that by having the mentality, toughness, Durant proved himself as one of the all-time greats. He also added that it was a signature performance for KD, and it was beautiful to watch courtside, New York Post reported.
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WATCH: Kevin Durant's 49-PT Triple-Double Powers Nets to Game 5 W! -from NBA