Kevin Durant Attributes Rockets Loss to Personal Mistakes, Highlights Alperen Şengün’s Talent
The Houston Rockets suffered a double-overtime defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night, a game marked by both individual brilliance and critical errors. Despite a standout performance from Alperen Şengün, Kevin Durant took responsibility for the loss, citing missed free throws and late-game fouls as key factors.
Durant Accepts Blame for Crucial Loss
Following the 125-124 loss, Durant openly acknowledged his role in the outcome. “I missed the free throw (at the end of regulation) and I fouled Shai at the end (of double overtime) to put them up one,” Durant stated plainly. “I believe those two plays are the reason we lost.” This admission came after a game where Durant missed a crucial free throw with 9.5 seconds remaining in regulation, allowing the Thunder to tie the score and force overtime. He then fouled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, ultimately sealing the Rockets’ fate.
Şengün’s Performance Shines Despite Defeat
While Durant shouldered the blame, the game also showcased the rising talent of Alperen Şengün. His performance underscored a promising season ahead for the Rockets, even in defeat. Durant himself has praised Şengün’s unique skillset, stating, “Alpi is such a unique talent. I’ve never had the chance to play next to a big who can dominate in the post the way he does. It’s something you don’t observe too often in our game these days, but he’s got so much more to his game.”
A Developing Chemistry
Şengün has expressed trust in Durant, particularly in clutch situations. After Durant scored 30+ points in victories against the Portland Blazers and Orlando Magic, Şengün demonstrated his confidence in Durant’s ability to close out games. “I’m really happy to give someone the ball at the end of the game I know he’s gonna score. That’s really a great feeling,” Şengün said. “I’m just ready to give him the ball and go crash the boards. And trust him.”
Defensive Strategies Against Durant
The Thunder’s defensive strategy focused on containing Durant, particularly after halftime. They implemented double-teams immediately after his first dribble, forcing quick decisions and contributing to several turnovers. LeBron James, observing the game, noted the Lakers’ approach, stating, “He’s one of the best players in history so we attempt to put several defenses against him, to shake him up. And when he shoots, we hope he misses.”
Durant’s Self-Assessment
Durant acknowledged the impact of the defensive adjustments, stating, “In the first half, I was comfortable in isolation or on pick-and-roll and they decided not to depart me like that anymore. I have to do better with the ball… When I have the ball, it’s like I’m facing a zone defense. As soon as I try to post, it’s a two-hander. So I just have to find ways to free myself and my teammates.”
Kevin Durant Career Stats (Selected Seasons)
| Saison | Team | MJ | Min | Shots | 3pts | LF | Off | Def | To | Pd | Fte | Int | Bp | Ct | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-08 | OKC | 80 | 34:36 | 43.0 | 28.8 | 87.3 | 0.9 | 3.5 | 4.4 | 2.4 | 1.5 | 1.0 | 2.9 | 0.9 | 20.3 |
| 2023-24 | PHO | 75 | 37:13 | 52.3 | 41.3 | 85.6 | 0.5 | 6.1 | 6.6 | 5.0 | 1.8 | 0.9 | 3.3 | 1.2 | 27.1 |
| 2025-26 | NEW | 64 | 36:29 | 51.4 | 40.2 | 88.6 | 0.6 | 4.9 | 5.5 | 4.4 | 1.9 | 0.8 | 3.2 | 0.9 | 25.8 |
How to read the stats? MJ = matches played; Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; Off = offensive rebound; Def=defensive rebound; To = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; Pts = Points.
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