Kevin Durant, one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, has had an illustrious career filled with numerous accolades, including multiple championships and MVP awards. However, his playoff journey has also seen him face off against some of the greatest players in the history of the game—many of whom have since been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Throughout his playoff career, Durant has eliminated 14 Hall of Famers, showcasing both his exceptional talent and the competitive nature of the league.
1. Kobe Bryant
In 2010, Durant faced off against the legendary Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the playoffs. Although the Thunder lost that series, Durant would eventually surpass Bryant’s legacy as he continued to excel in the following years.
2. Tim Duncan
Durant’s breakthrough came during the 2012 Western Conference Finals when he led the Oklahoma City Thunder past the San Antonio Spurs, who were spearheaded by the legendary Tim Duncan. Duncan, a five-time champion and two-time MVP, represented the old guard of the NBA, and Durant’s success against him marked a changing of the guard.
3. Gary Payton
Durant met Gary Payton in the 2012 playoffs as the Thunder faced the Dallas Mavericks in the first round. While Payton was past his prime by then, his Hall of Fame status as a defensive stalwart made the matchup notable.
4. Allen Iverson
In 2010, Durant’s Thunder squared off against the Denver Nuggets, featuring the electrifying Allen Iverson. Although Iverson’s peak years were behind him, his impact on the game and scoring prowess remained significant.
5. Paul Pierce
Durant eliminated Paul Pierce and the Boston Celtics in the 2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals, showcasing his ability to perform on the big stage against established stars. Durant’s scoring efficiency in that series helped solidify his reputation as a clutch player.
6. Ray Allen
Durant also faced Ray Allen during the 2012 NBA Finals. Allen, a 10-time All-Star and the NBA’s all-time leader in three-point field goals made, was a key contributor to the Miami Heat. Durant’s performance helped the Thunder capture the championship that year.
7. Dirk Nowitzki
In 2012, Durant’s Thunder faced off against Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks. Durant’s exceptional play and scoring ability ultimately led to the Thunder defeating the defending champions.
8. Dwyane Wade
In the 2012 NBA Finals, Durant went head-to-head with Dwyane Wade, another Hall of Famer, who was key to the Miami Heat’s success. The series saw Durant rise to prominence, ultimately earning his first NBA championship.
9. Kevin Garnett
Durant eliminated Kevin Garnett during the 2013 playoffs when the Thunder faced the Boston Celtics. Garnett, a fierce competitor and future Hall of Famer, was in the twilight of his career but still left a significant impact.
10. Vince Carter
Durant’s Thunder eliminated the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the 2016 playoffs, which featured Vince Carter, a legendary player known for his athleticism and scoring ability.
11. Chris Bosh
During the 2012 NBA Finals, Durant faced Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat. Bosh, a key member of the Heat’s Big Three, was instrumental in the team’s success, but Durant’s skills ultimately prevailed.
12. Reggie Miller
While Durant never faced Reggie Miller directly in the playoffs, Miller’s legacy looms large over the game. Durant has spoken about the impact Miller had on his career as a shooter, and eliminating his legacy from the history of basketball is symbolic of Durant’s ascent.
13. Steve Nash
In 2012, Durant eliminated Steve Nash’s Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs. Nash, a two-time MVP, remains one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, but Durant’s scoring ability outshined the veteran.
14. Alonzo Mourning
Durant faced Alonzo Mourning, another future Hall of Famer, during the 2012 playoffs, where his Thunder emerged victorious against the Heat. Mourning’s defensive tenacity and shot-blocking ability were challenges that Durant managed to overcome.
In summary, Kevin Durant’s playoff career has not only been defined by his personal achievements but also by his ability to compete against and eliminate some of the greatest players in NBA history. His encounters with these Hall of Famers reflect both his skill and the competitive nature of the league, marking Durant as one of the game’s elite players. As he continues his career, Durant’s legacy grows richer, highlighting his role in shaping the history of basketball.