Thunder forward Kevin Durant has earned the NBA's Western Conference Player of the Month award for February, a month in which he averaged 29.1 points per contest and eclipsed his career-high with a 51-point performance in an overtime victory over the Denver Nuggets.
More importantly, the Thunder went 12-3 during in February, and it was partially due to Durant's play on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. Thunder Head Coach Scott Brooks has been impressed not only by Durant's scoring, but his progression as a player.
"It's talent that works," Brooks said. "He's not just a talent that steps on the court and good things happen. He earns everything that he gets and that's what I love about Kevin. He's a special kid on and off the floor, but he earns everything he gets, and he's getting better at getting the ball where he wants it."
Durant is averaging a career-high in rebounds (7.9), assists (3.4), blocks (1.17) and steals (1.36), a reflection of the dedication he has had on developing other facets of his game beyond just scoring. In addition, the Thunder's team defense has improved to become one of the better defensive teams in the league thanks to Durant and his teammates' commitment to core defensive principles. By communicating, rotating and working together, Durant is happy that he and his Thunder teammates can enjoy this Player of the Month award less than a week after Durant was named MVP of the All-Star Game.
"I'm just excited I'm playing the game of basketball, healthy, with a great group of guys," Durant said. "I'm grateful for a great organization. No matter if I have a good game or a bad game, I'm still thankful."