logo
Kevin Durant Issues Response to Fan's Celtics Post

Kevin Durant Issues Response to Fan's Celtics Post

Yahooa day ago

Kevin Durant Issues Response to Fan's Celtics Post originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant hasn't gotten out of the second round of the playoffs since leaving the Golden State Warriors in 2019. The two-time NBA Finals MVP's best chance of making a deep run since then may have been with the Brooklyn Nets.
Advertisement
Durant signed with the Nets in June 2019 and sat out the next season due to his Achilles injury. The two-time NBA champion then helped Brooklyn beat the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs the year after that, but got eliminated by the eventual champion Milwaukee Bucks in seven games the next round.
Superstar teammates James Harden and Kyrie Irving got injured during the series, but Durant almost willed the Nets to a win with his 48-point performance in Game 7. However, the future Hall of Famer's toe was on the three-point line when he made a game-tying shot to send the contest into overtime, and it would've been the game-winner had it been a three. Brooklyn eventually lost 115-111.
The Nets then traded Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2022, and they got swept by the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs that year. A fan asked Durant if he was satisfied with his performance in that series on Tuesday, via social media.
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) and Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35).© Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
"Of course not, ima perfecionist, how u think I got so great?? Did u use those 4 games as a declaration of my talent?" he said.
Advertisement
"Just checking, and no, I didn't, I just expected you and Kyrie to get a game. Appreciate the reply," the fan responded.
"One game would've had u saying the same thing," Durant retorted. "You a rings culture guy, if it ain't bout the ring. It don't mean [expletive]. I get it, brother."
Brooklyn traded Durant to the Suns in February 2023, and he led the latter team to a second-round exit vs. the eventual champion Denver Nuggets. Phoenix then got swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round the next year, and didn't make the playoffs this season.
Durant is now entering the final year of his contract.
Advertisement
Related: Celtics' Brad Stevens Announces Kristaps Porzingis News on Monday
Related: Jalen Brunson Makes Powerful Statement on Jayson Tatum's Injury
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 11, 2025, where it first appeared.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Injuries Cloud Eagles' Minicamp Outlook as Linebacker Depth Cotinues To Be Growing Concern
Injuries Cloud Eagles' Minicamp Outlook as Linebacker Depth Cotinues To Be Growing Concern

Yahoo

time22 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

Injuries Cloud Eagles' Minicamp Outlook as Linebacker Depth Cotinues To Be Growing Concern

Injuries Cloud Eagles' Minicamp Outlook as Linebacker Depth Cotinues To Be Growing Concern originally appeared on Athlon Sports. As the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles wrap up their spring practice sessions, several key players remain sidelined with injuries that will impact their availability for July minicamp. The reigning champions face significant depth concerns at linebacker, while other positions show more promising recovery timelines. Advertisement LB Nakobe Dean (torn patellar tendon): Dean's recovery from the injury suffered during the wild-card victory over Green Bay continues to progress slowly. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio delivered sobering news this week, stating that Dean 'won't be back anytime soon' and 'won't be back for a while.' The third-year linebacker, who was having a breakout season before the injury, has incorporated ballet training into his rehab to improve flexibility and mobility. Dean shed his crutches just three weeks after surgery, but full recovery from a patellar tendon tear typically requires eight to 12 months. With his surgery taking place in January, participation in July minicamp is extremely unlikely. Late July training camp represents his earliest possible return. LB Jihaad Campbell (shoulder surgery): The Eagles' first-round pick will definitively miss July minicamp as he continues to recover from March surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. Fangio confirmed that Campbell 'won't hit the practice field until sometime in August,' meaning the rookie will miss all spring and summer sessions. Though he remains active in meetings and walkthroughs, Campbell's health remains a concern. Reports indicate the Alabama product will eventually require surgery on his other shoulder and may have underlying knee issues. Despite this, the Eagles remain confident in his long-term upside. C Cam Jurgens (back procedure): Jurgens, who recently signed a four-year, $68 million extension, presents a far more optimistic outlook. The newly extended center played through significant back pain during the postseason before undergoing an offseason procedure to address nerve discomfort. He's expected to be fully available for minicamp and training camp, reinforcing the team's confidence in his recovery and value. EDGE Nolan Smith (triceps): Smith's recovery from the triceps tear suffered in Super Bowl LIX is progressing on schedule. The second-year edge rusher has been a limited participant in OTAs and is expected to be cleared for full action by July minicamp, if not sooner. Advertisement FB Ben VanSumeren (knee): VanSumeren, who missed the Eagles' first media-attended OTA session, returned to action June 4. He previously stated he would be ready for training camp, and signs point to him being available for July's minicamp. Of all the injury concerns, linebacker represents the most pressing issue heading into the summer. With Dean and Campbell sidelined, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has received first-team reps next to Zack Baun throughout OTAs. While this opens the door for younger players to step up, it also highlights the team's thin depth at a crucial position. The Eagles are the only NFL team holding just one mandatory minicamp practice this year, potentially a reward for their Super Bowl run. That limited time on the field makes the health of key contributors even more critical as Philadelphia prepares for another title defense. Training camp in late July will provide the next major checkpoint to determine which injured players are ready to contribute to the Eagles' repeat aspirations. Related: Eagles Predicted To Have Two 'Sleeper' MVP Candidates Related: Blankenship Sounds Off on 'Completely Different' Eagles Setup This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.

Could Panthers Land Hometown Hero Jaire Alexander
Could Panthers Land Hometown Hero Jaire Alexander

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

Could Panthers Land Hometown Hero Jaire Alexander

Could Panthers Land Hometown Hero Jaire Alexander originally appeared on Athlon Sports. It's not every day that a Pro Bowl-caliber cornerback becomes available, but when the Green Bay Packers released Jaire Alexander, the NFL world took notice. And in Carolina, where offseason buzz has been limited, the idea of bringing Alexander home could ignite a fan base hungry for hope. Advertisement Alexander, a Charlotte-area native who starred at Rocky River High School in Mint Hill, has long expressed admiration for his roots. Back in his Louisville days, he made it clear that the Queen City held a special place in his heart. Even during a Packers visit to Bank of America Stadium, he named himself an 'honorary captain', a playful but telling nod to his hometown ties. Now, with his release official, the Carolina Panthers could present a compelling destination for the 28-year-old defensive back. It's a rare convergence of need, opportunity, and emotional appeal. On paper, Carolina has already invested heavily at corner with Jaycee Horn, a first-rounder with elite traits when healthy. But Horn has struggled with injuries, appearing in just 37 games over four seasons. Depth behind him, Mike Jackson, Chau Smith-Wade, and Shemar Bartholomew offers competence, not dominance. Add a healthy Alexander, and suddenly Carolina's secondary looks like one of the league's most fearsome. Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander gives the ball to a fan after his interception against the Bills.© JAMIE GERMANO/ROCHESTER DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE / USA TODAY NETWORK The fit isn't just strategic, it's personal. Advertisement Alexander has spoken fondly of his desire to return to Charlotte, and there's precedent for hometown talent taking initiative. Just this offseason, Hunter Renfrow, another Carolinas native reportedly reached out to the Panthers looking for a chance to wear the black and blue. Could Alexander do the same? It's a question Panthers GM Dan Morgan can't afford to ignore. With head coach Dave Canales trying to reshape a roster that finished 5-12 last season, injecting energy and identity into the locker room is a must. Signing a player with elite skills, locker room presence, and a deep emotional tie to the city would check every box. Alexander's recent injury history, he played just seven games in 2024 might even help Carolina negotiate a team-friendly deal, something the cap-conscious front office needs as it rebuilds around Bryce Young. Advertisement The Panthers shouldn't just explore this opportunity, they should pounce. In a landscape where wins are earned as much in free agency as they are on Sundays, bringing Jaire Alexander home could be the bold, culture-defining move Carolina desperately needs. Related: Cam Newton Launches New BET Show, 106 & Sports Related: Bryce Young's Fiery Side Emerges at Panthers Minicamp This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.

Backfield Duo Could Define Eagles Offense in 2025
Backfield Duo Could Define Eagles Offense in 2025

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

Backfield Duo Could Define Eagles Offense in 2025

Backfield Duo Could Define Eagles Offense in 2025 originally appeared on Athlon Sports. After Kenneth Gainwell signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Philadelphia Eagles wasted no time filling the void in their backfield. The defending Super Bowl champions signed former Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon to a one-year deal, securing a physical, experienced presence behind Saquon Barkley. Advertisement Dillon, who missed all of 2024 with a neck injury, brings an intriguing skill set that complements Barkley's explosive playmaking. While Barkley's Offensive Player of the Year campaign was historic—racking up 2,005 rushing yards on 345 carries—the heavy workload underscores the importance of adding quality depth. At 6-foot, 247 pounds, Dillon offers a contrasting style. His power-based approach thrives in short-yardage and goal-line situations. During his four seasons in Green Bay, Dillon averaged 4.1 yards per carry and caught 86 passes for 763 yards. He consistently generated tough yards after contact, averaging 2.96 yards per attempt in that category—a testament to his downhill running and finishing ability. The addition gives Philadelphia's offense another dimension. When defenses gear up to contain Barkley's outside threat and big-play capability, Dillon's physicality allows the Eagles to pound the ball inside and control the tempo. His ability to grind out tough yards gives offensive coordinator Brian Johnson new tactical leverage in short-yardage and clock-management scenarios. Dillon also brings value as a receiver. His experience in Green Bay's passing schemes means the Eagles can keep defenses guessing with personnel groupings that include both backs. The flexibility to deploy Dillon on passing downs without sacrificing production gives Philadelphia more freedom in their formations and play design. Advertisement The Eagles expect competition for the backup role, with rookie Will Shipley—the team's fourth-round pick in 2024—bringing athletic upside and versatility. While Shipley will have his opportunities, Dillon's NFL experience and proven track record offer an edge as the Eagles head into training camp. Dillon's injury history remains a factor. After missing the entire 2024 season with a neck issue, medical clearance was a prerequisite for the signing. While his previous production suggests he can contribute when healthy, the Eagles will closely monitor his performance and durability through the summer. Philadelphia's elite offensive line presents an ideal fit for Dillon's style. The unit's powerful run blocking consistently opens lanes and enables backs to hit the second level. In a system where downhill runners have historically thrived—from LeGarrette Blount to Jordan Howard—Dillon's fit is clear. The short-term nature of the deal reflects a smart roster-building strategy. By securing Dillon on a one-year contract, general manager Howie Roseman adds insurance behind Barkley without overcommitting financially. If Dillon thrives, the Eagles could consider a longer-term option. If not, the team maintains flexibility heading into 2026. Advertisement Related: NFC East Braces For Impact of McLaurin, Watt and Hendrickson All-Pro Holdouts Related: Eagles Hint At Major Change for Defense and Cooper DeJean This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 11, 2025, where it first appeared.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store