One current NBA player has managed to capture the beauty of basketball similar to Julius Erving.
When fans discuss players from the old generation, most tend to pick the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, or Michael Jordan as their favorite players.
Oftentimes, Philadelphia 76ers legend Julius Erving tends to be looked over during such discussions.
However, Dr. J was an inspiration for a plethora of current NBA players, including none other than LA Lakers star LeBron James.
So, is there any player who is similar to Erving in the current NBA? The short answer is yes.
Former Los Angeles Clippers ballboy and star sports agent David Meltzer recently spoke to NBA Analysis Network in an exclusive interview.
During the conversation, Meltzer named Kevin Durant as the current NBA player who reminds him of Dr. J, and here’s why.
“When I think of Julius Erving—“Dr. J”—I think of elegance, creativity, and the ability to captivate audiences with both athleticism and artistry,” Meltzer said.
“In today’s game, Kevin Durant comes to mind. Much like Dr. J, Durant has a unique ability to glide through defenders, create his shot from anywhere, and make the game look beautiful,” he added.
The Sports 1 Marketing CEO also named one quality that makes them special.
“What makes both of them special is that their talent transcends stats—they make you feel something when you watch them play,” David stated.
Many consider Durant to be the best scorer of this generation. A key reason behind that is KD’s fluid moments on the offensive end of the floor, much like Erving.
For years, NBA big men were stuck in a conventional role. Most teams expected them to stay in the paint and score from there.
Despite being 6’11”, the Slim Reaper can score from all three levels and that’s how he has redefined the modern-day big men roles, per Meltzer.
“Dr. J wasn’t just a player; he was a pioneer. Durant, similarly, is redefining what it means to be a big man with guard-like skills,” he continued.
“Both have an intentionality in how they approach the game—balancing creativity with a focused drive for excellence,” Meltzer concluded.
Durant, 36, has entered the twilight years of his NBA career. But the Phoenix Suns star continues to captivate fans with his mesmerizing skills.
This season, he has so far averaged 25.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for the Suns, all while dealing with multiple injuries.
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