Stephen A. Smith had some rather controversial criticism targeted at Kevin Durant on Thursday’s episode of “First Take.” The analyst expressed his lack of confidence in the Phoenix Suns’ chances in the Western Conference, saying that their superstar doesn’t do enough as a leader for his team despite being able to deliver spectacular performances in their games.
Smith also said that he feels as though KD doesn’t feel strong responsibility as a leader and that
It’s enough for him to play like the generational talent that he is. The two-time NBA champion didn’t take too well to Smith’s comments and took to X to express his disagreement.
“I would disagree, Stephen. I would argue, passionately, that my intangibles have always been on par with my talent,” Durant posted.
I would disagree stephen. I would argue, passionately, that my intangibles have always been on par with my talent
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) October 24, 2024
Kevin Durant also went back and forth with some fans who shared Stephen A. Smith’s opinion, saying that none of them have been with him during practice, so he doesn’t give any bearing on their criticisms about how he leads the Suns.
Stephen A. Smith responds to Kevin Durant’s disagreement
While many of his peers aren’t as active as he is on social media, Kevin Durant has earned a reputation for being one of the NBA’s most opinionated players, actively debating with some fans on social media who don’t share his opinions.
Just six minutes after Durant posted on X about his disagreement with Stephen A. Smith’s comments on “First Take,” the analyst himself responded to the 14-time NBA All-Star.
“And I would argue, passionately, that very little compares to your obvious GREATNESS as a talent. Including those intangibles,” Smith said, adding the hashtag “#Respectfully.”
And I would argue, passionately, that very little compares to your obvious GREATNESS as a talent. Including those intangibles.#Respectfully https://t.co/AQSeMo9QeM
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) October 24, 2024
The response of Stephen A. Smith is merely him doubling down on his comment that Durant’s leadership isn’t up to par with his generational talent. One social media fan took KD’s side, pointing out to Smith that he was mic’d up for the Sun’s season-opening game against the Los Angeles Clippers, and he could be heard doing leader things—motivating his teammates, giving them credit, and holding them accountable when necessary.
In the Suns’ 116-113 overtime victory over the Clippers, Kevin Durant scored 25 points, shooting 8-for-17 from the field, including 2-for-5 from the three-point area. He also grabbed seven defensive rebounds, three steals, and a block in over 43 minutes of play.
Durant and the Suns will return to Los Angeles on Friday, this time to face his fellow 2024 Paris Olympics gold medalist LeBron James and the Lakers.
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