JJ Redick Says Kevin Durant Became The Best NBA Player After Returning From Achilles Injury: "Everybody Else Is Sort Of Competing For That Second Spot.”

NetsDaily

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JJ Redick almost had the chance to play with Kevin Durant last season after the New Orleans Pelicans promised to relocate him to a place near his family. Brooklyn was a good landing spot for the sharpshooter, but he ultimately was dealt to Dallas. 

Redick could have been a great addition to the Nets last season, especially after Joe Harris' level went down, leaving his team helpless in the absence of James Harden and Kyrie Irving in the playoff.

Now Redick is retired and ready to start a new chapter in his life as an analyst for ESPN. The 15-year veteran will bring so much knowledge to the network after gaining fame thanks to his podcasts. 

Talking with reporters, JJ had the chance to discuss how good Kevin Durant is following a severe injury in 2019. After hurting his Achilles, the 2x NBA champion returned like he never left, dominating rivals, showing his best version again. Redick is a big admirer of what he has done, claiming that KD is the best player in the league at this moment. 

"What he’s been able to do post-Achilles has been nothing short of remarkable. From my perspective as a player and my peers' perspective, he’s the best player in the NBA, and everybody else is sort of competing for that second spot."

Durant had a terrific 2020/21 season. Even though he wasn't considered for the MVP award, the player demonstrated nothing had changed and picked things right where he left them. 

Unfortunately, the Milwaukee Bucks defeated him and the Nets in the second round of the 2021 playoff. Durant left his everything on the court, sinking clutch shots after clutch shot. Ultimately, he couldn't do more for his squad against the eventual champions, but KD demonstrated he still got it and is ready to dominate the competition.