The Athletic NBA Daily KD passes MJ + Post All-Star Glow-ups
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Mar 23, 2026 They react to Kevin Durant climbing the all-time scoring list and discuss his chase for Kareem. Oklahoma City’s health and Jalen Williams’ return get attention. The Nuggets’ role-player comebacks and Spurs’ surprise rise are covered. Lakers’ nine-game streak, Luka’s late-season surge, Atlanta’s post-break transformation, and Boston’s dominance with Jayson Tatum are highlighted.
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KD's All-Time Scoring Run Shows Longevity Matters
- Kevin Durant's climb into the all-time top five highlights longevity as a scoring weapon.
- At ~37 years old he still posts ~1,700–1,800 points per season, making a push at Kareem possible only with multiple healthy, productive seasons.
Math Versus Reality For KD Chasing Kareem
- Passing Kareem would require roughly 6,093 more points, translating to about three and a half plus healthy seasons at current output.
- Hosts stress the uncertainty: age, prior injuries (Achilles, fractured leg), and the need for a team built to keep him as a primary scorer.
Jalen Williams' Return Turns OKC Into A Dual-Threat
- Oklahoma City getting Jalen Williams back shifts them from a Shea Gilgeous-Alexander-centered team to a dual threat with a release valve.
- The trio (SGA, Williams, Chet) have played far fewer minutes together this season but show a better net rating when on court together.