In a tense moment during a recent NBA matchup, Steven Adams and Mason Plumlee found themselves embroiled in a brief wrestling match that led to both players being ejected from the game. The incident did not escape the attention of Kevin Durant, who addressed the scuffle in a postgame interview, offering a blunt assessment of its impact on the game.
When asked about the ejections, Durant was clear in his opinion, stating, “None at all,” regarding the influence of the incident on the outcome. At the time of the ejections, the game was tightly contested, with only a three-point difference on the scoreboard. However, Durant emphasized that his team had already faced significant challenges earlier in the match, which he believed overshadowed the altercation.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Durant pointed to offensive struggles as a critical factor in their defeat. “They got whatever they wanted on the offensive side,” he noted, explaining that the team’s tendency to play late into the shot clock contributed to turnovers and difficult shots. He stressed the importance of playing earlier in the clock to create better offensive opportunities.
As the season progresses, the team’s morale and focus remain paramount. Durant underscored the collective love for basketball that drives the players to make the most of every opportunity on the court, regardless of their current standings or the challenges they face. “Your love of the game should be shown more than anything at this point, especially during tough stretches,” he said.
Regarding the ejection itself, Durant offered a nuanced view, suggesting that while he may be biased, the altercation stemmed from Adams attempting to pick up Plumlee, who happened to be on top of him during the scuffle. As the team navigates through this difficult phase, their commitment to the game remains a guiding force.