A Passing of the Torch: Durant’s Ascent to Sixth
On January 19, 2026, Kevin Durant, playing for the Phoenix Suns, etched his name further into NBA history by surpassing Dirk Nowitzki for sixth place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. This wasn’t just a milestone; it was a testament to Durant’s unparalleled scoring ability and a symbolic passing of the torch from one generation’s premier scoring forward to another. This article provides a tactical breakdown of Durant’s journey, his unique scoring arsenal, and the context surrounding this significant achievement.
The Statistical Significance
Passing Dirk Nowitzki, a player renowned for his innovative fadeaway jumper and consistent scoring prowess, is no small feat. Nowitzki amassed a staggering 31,560 points throughout his 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks. Durant’s ability to reach this mark in fewer seasons speaks volumes about his offensive efficiency and relentless pursuit of scoring opportunities. As of today, Durant has now accumulated over 31,560 points and continues to climb the list. The players ahead of him represent the pantheon of NBA legends, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, LeBron James, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan. Each point Durant scores further solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest scorers the game has ever seen.
Durant’s Scoring Arsenal: A Tactical Examination
What sets Kevin Durant apart is not just his volume of scoring, but the diversity and efficiency with which he achieves it. He’s a 6’10” forward with the ball-handling skills of a guard and the shooting touch of an elite marksman. Let’s delve into the key components of his offensive game:
Mid-Range Mastery
In an era increasingly dominated by three-pointers and shots at the rim, Durant’s proficiency in the mid-range game remains a potent weapon. He utilizes a variety of moves to create space, including jab steps, crossovers, and step-backs. His high release point makes his shot virtually unblockable, and his ability to shoot accurately off the dribble allows him to exploit even the smallest openings. Opposing defenses often find it difficult to contain Durant in the mid-range because he can rise and fire over almost any defender. The Suns often leverage this by running plays specifically designed to get Durant the ball in his sweet spots – the elbows and the free-throw line extended.
Three-Point Prowess
While renowned for his mid-range game, Durant is also an exceptional three-point shooter. He consistently shoots above 38% from beyond the arc, making him a threat from anywhere on the court. He uses his size to shoot over smaller defenders and his quick release to get his shot off before taller defenders can contest. The Suns often use him as a spot-up shooter, taking advantage of his ability to knock down open threes. They also run plays where he comes off screens, creating opportunities for him to shoot on the move. Durant’s three-point shooting forces defenses to extend, opening up driving lanes for his teammates and creating more space for him to operate in the mid-range.
Driving and Finishing
Durant’s length and athleticism allow him to be a formidable driver. He uses his long strides to cover ground quickly and his exceptional body control to navigate through traffic. He’s adept at finishing at the rim, using his length to shield the ball from defenders and his soft touch to convert difficult layups. He also draws a significant number of fouls, getting to the free-throw line frequently. The Suns often utilize pick-and-roll plays with Durant as the ball-handler, giving him the option to drive to the basket or pull up for a jump shot. This versatility makes him incredibly difficult to defend in pick-and-roll situations.
Post-Up Game
While not his primary focus, Durant’s post-up game adds another dimension to his scoring arsenal. He uses his size and strength to establish position in the post, and his soft touch allows him to score with a variety of moves, including fadeaways, turnaround jumpers, and drop steps. He also uses his post-up game to draw double teams, creating opportunities for his teammates. The Suns sometimes use him in the post to exploit mismatches, particularly against smaller defenders. His ability to score in the post forces defenses to respect his inside game, making him even more difficult to guard on the perimeter.
Isolation Expertise
Durant is one of the most skilled isolation players in the NBA. He can create scoring opportunities against virtually any defender, using his combination of size, skill, and athleticism. He’s adept at reading defenses and exploiting weaknesses, and he’s always willing to take the big shot. The Suns often rely on Durant in isolation situations, particularly in late-game scenarios. His ability to create his own shot makes him a valuable asset in crunch time. Opposing defenses often resort to double-teaming him in isolation, but Durant is a skilled passer who can find open teammates when he’s double-teamed.
The Phoenix Suns’ Offensive System and Durant’s Role
The Phoenix Suns’ offensive system is designed to maximize Durant’s scoring potential. The team features other talented players who can create opportunities for him and draw defensive attention. The Suns’ coaching staff has implemented a variety of plays and strategies that take advantage of Durant’s strengths. They emphasize ball movement, spacing, and player movement to create open looks for Durant and his teammates.
One key aspect of the Suns’ offense is their use of pick-and-roll plays with Durant as the ball-handler. This allows him to use his combination of size, skill, and athleticism to create scoring opportunities. The Suns also run plays where Durant comes off screens, creating opportunities for him to shoot on the move. They also utilize his post-up game to exploit mismatches and draw double teams.
Furthermore, the presence of other scoring threats on the Suns, such as Devin Booker (when healthy) and other capable players, prevents defenses from solely focusing on Durant. This spacing allows him to operate with greater freedom and find more open looks. The Suns’ offensive system is designed to keep defenses guessing and to create mismatches that Durant can exploit.
Impact on the Game and Legacy
Durant’s impact on the game extends beyond his scoring prowess. He has inspired a generation of players with his unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism. He has demonstrated that it is possible to be a dominant scorer while also being a team player. His versatility and efficiency have redefined what it means to be a modern NBA superstar.
His legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history is secure. Passing Dirk Nowitzki on the all-time scoring list is just one of many accomplishments that have cemented his place among the game’s elite. As he continues to play, he has the opportunity to climb even higher on the list and further solidify his legacy. Durant’s influence on the game will be felt for many years to come.
The Mental Fortitude of a Scorer
Beyond the physical gifts and refined skills, Durant possesses a mental fortitude crucial for sustained scoring excellence. He has a relentless focus on improvement, constantly working to refine his craft. He also possesses an unwavering confidence in his ability to score, which allows him to perform at his best in high-pressure situations. This mental toughness is evident in his ability to consistently deliver clutch performances throughout his career. He embraces the pressure of being the primary scorer and thrives in those moments.
The Next Chapter
As Kevin Durant continues his career with the Phoenix Suns, the basketball world eagerly anticipates what he will accomplish next. His pursuit of further milestones on the all-time scoring list will undoubtedly be a captivating storyline. Beyond individual achievements, his focus will likely be on leading the Suns to championship contention. With his scoring prowess and the supporting cast around him, the Suns have the potential to be a dominant force in the NBA. Durant’s journey is far from over, and his impact on the game will continue to unfold in the years to come.
Conclusion
Kevin Durant passing Dirk Nowitzki on the NBA all-time scoring list is a monumental achievement that underscores his status as one of the greatest scorers in basketball history. His unique blend of size, skill, and athleticism, combined with his relentless work ethic and mental fortitude, has allowed him to reach unprecedented heights. As he continues his career, the basketball world will be watching with anticipation, eager to witness the next chapter in his remarkable story. This milestone is not just a personal triumph for Durant, but also a celebration of the art of scoring and the enduring legacy of two of the game’s most iconic offensive players.
FAQ
How many points did Dirk Nowitzki score in his NBA career?
Dirk Nowitzki scored 31,560 points in his NBA career, all with the Dallas Mavericks.
What is Kevin Durant’s career scoring average?
As of January 19, 2026, Kevin Durant’s career scoring average is approximately 27 points per game. This number can fluctuate slightly depending on his performance in subsequent games.
Which teams has Kevin Durant played for in his NBA career?
Kevin Durant has played for the Seattle SuperSonics/Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, and Phoenix Suns.
What are Kevin Durant’s strengths as a scorer?
Kevin Durant’s strengths as a scorer include his height, which allows him to shoot over defenders, his exceptional ball-handling skills for a player of his size, his proficiency from mid-range and three-point range, and his ability to create his own shot in isolation situations.
Who are the top five all-time NBA scorers?
The top five all-time NBA scorers are, in order: LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan.
How has Kevin Durant’s scoring ability impacted his teams?
Kevin Durant’s scoring ability has significantly impacted his teams by providing a reliable offensive option, drawing defensive attention from opponents, and creating opportunities for his teammates. His scoring prowess has been a key factor in the success of all the teams he has played for.
What is Kevin Durant’s field goal percentage for his career?
As of January 19, 2026, Kevin Durant’s career field goal percentage is approximately 49%. This reflects his efficiency as a scorer, combining volume with accuracy.
Has Kevin Durant ever won an NBA scoring title?
Yes, Kevin Durant has won the NBA scoring title multiple times in his career.
What makes Kevin Durant’s scoring style unique compared to other NBA players?
Kevin Durant’s scoring style is unique due to his combination of size, skill, and athleticism. He possesses the height and length of a power forward, the ball-handling skills of a guard, and the shooting touch of an elite marksman. This combination allows him to score in a variety of ways and makes him incredibly difficult to defend.
What are the Phoenix Suns’ chances of winning a championship with Kevin Durant?
With Kevin Durant on the roster, the Phoenix Suns have a strong chance of contending for an NBA championship. His scoring ability, combined with the talent of his teammates, makes them a formidable team in the Western Conference. However, their success will depend on factors such as team chemistry, health, and performance in the playoffs.
