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Kevin Durant proving to be vital to the Golden State Warriors success

By Nathan Beighle

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 10: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors drives against Joe Ingles #2 of the Utah Jazz in the first half of a game at Vivint Smart Home Arena on April 10, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 10: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors drives against Joe Ingles #2 of the Utah Jazz in the first half of a game at Vivint Smart Home Arena on April 10, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors have started out strong, kicking the season off to a 6-1 start. It’s in part thanks to Kevin Durant who has been electric through seven.

Although the Golden State Warriors have four stars, their two main superstars have anchored their 6-1 start. Behind MVP-like performances from both Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, the Warriors are feeding their superstars more than ever.

That uptick is showcasing how valuable Kevin Durant is. While many aren’t afraid of a Warriors relapse without Durant next season, it seems they should be.

Durant is averaging 30.3 points per game on over 55% from the field. Tack on 8.1 rebounds and 5.9 points per game, and it’s clear that Durant’s been playmaking, scoring and rebounding all at an elite level.

He’s one of the only players in the NBA that can consistently put up numbers like that. Durant’s ability to take pressure off Curry has helped the two spearhead this Warriors team early in the season.

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They’re 6-1 with two of their stars playing very subpar. Their impressive record is directly related to the enhanced play of their two superstars.

As for Klay and Green, they’ve done what their typical numbers, just at a worse percentage. Klay’s shooting just under 40% and Green’s under 50% and under 30% from deep. Along with being just a few points away from a perfect 7-0 start, the Dubs have leaned on Durant far more this season, and it can be easily seen in his usage rate.

Durant is at a team-high 30.5% usage rate.

Ranking 8th in the NBA in usage rate, taking that type of stardom off a team can clearly be seen in the current Cavaliers. Albeit their 0-6 start and the firing of their head coach can be attributed to far more than just James’ leaving, his absence created an unfillable whole.

While the Dubs would still have Curry and Green under contract, many Warrior fans might not understand and appreciate the impact that Durant’s had on the organization, especially this year’s team.

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We must appreciate the Slim Reaper while we have him and understand his lofty impact on this roster.

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