NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard

Mar 16, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) steals the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 123-108. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

19 of 21

Mar 12, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) is fouled while shooting by San Antonio Spurs shooting guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder

Last Rank: No. 3

Position: Point Guard

Age: 27

Slash Line: .505/.389/.898

Season Averages: 36.0 MPG, 28.0 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.3 BPG, 0.9 SPG, 2.5 3PM

Russell Westbrook has statistics that even Oscar Robertson has to be impressed with. Kevin Durant has elite production and remains the closer for the Oklahoma City Thunder, however, thus continuing to dictate the outcome of games based on how well he plays.

Westbrook is one of the Top 5 players in the NBA, but Durant is still the No. 1 player on the Thunder.

Durant’s ability to score comes with such ease that it almost looks as though he isn’t trying hard enough. He’s essentially the Tracy McGrady of this era, with the numbers and efficiency to inspire awe, but the desire for more from unforgiving NBA fans.

The only, “More,” he should be focused on delivering in 2015-16 is wins in the playoffs—his legacy is beginning to depend on it.

Durant is 27 years old, which means he’s entered his prime years. The Western Conference is as powerful at the top as it’s ever been, but Durant and Westbrook failing to win a championship in 2015-16 would be disappointing.

With Durant approaching free agency, it may be the Thunder’s last chance.

Next: Testing His Teammates?