MEMPHIS — Brooklyn Nets star forward Kevin Durant had high praise for Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, noting that the 23-year-old point guard is “doing some stuff that we’ve never seen before.”
When asked prior to Monday’s game against the Grizzlies if Morant’s game reminded him of anyone, Durant said it was unique.
“Nobody really,” Durant said. “He’s a unique player. A lot of athleticism and creativity out there. Body type reminds you of somebody like — well he’s taller than A.I. [Allen Iverson], but a wiry, strong player … but he’s an incredible player, man.”
Durant said last week that New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson was a “one of one” type of player because of athletic ability and frame. When asked if Morant could be placed in the same category, Durant noted some of the most athletic guards in league history while praising Morant.
“All of these guys are one of ones,” Durant said. “I’ve been in the league with DRose [Derrick Rose] and Russell Westbrook, so many athletic guards I’m missing, but those two stick out the most to me. The stuff they were doing was unheard of, and you’re seeing other guys doing the same thing. I’m sure he’s inspired by those two as well. The league’s in a great place.”
Nets swingman Ben Simmons echoed Durant’s comments about Morant.
“He’s an incredible athlete,” Simmons said after the Nets’ win over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night. “He pushes the pace, gets his team going, shares the ball. He’s relentless at the rim, so we just got to be physical. I think physical and communication is going to be our best thing.”