Ranking the top 50 NBA players of the 2021-22 season: 10-1

PORTLAND, OREGON - OCTOBER 04: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers reacts against the Golden State Warriors in the first quarter during the preseason game at Moda Center on October 04, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

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Top 50 NBA players ranked: 1. Kevin Durant

Previous Rank: 6

At times during the series against the Milwaukee Bucks, Kevin Durant felt like he was on the brink of ending the season (and title prospects) of every other player in the league. He was torching through the playoffs with one All-Star teammate out with injury and the other one hobbled. Even coming up just short of winning the season, Durant made it abundantly clear. He was back to be the best.

This season should be even better. The further removed from the injuries that he gets; Durant looks more and more comfortable on the court. The Nets are simultaneously one of most star-studded rosters as well as one of the deepest. Combine that with his sheer statistical brilliance, the world is Durant’s oyster.

Last season was Durant’s best from a numbers point of view since leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder. He averaged 26.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.3 blocks per game on shooting splits of .537/.450/.882. Now, with a full season with James Harden to partner with, it may be too late for the rest of the league. He may get the chance to take some nights off along the way, but if Durant is healthy at the end of the season the title will be his to lose.

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