Kevin Durant Whistled for 15th Technical Foul of Season, 1 Shy of Suspension
When you think of Kevin Durant, you think of a cool, calm, mild-mannered guy who almost seems incapable of losing his temper, right? Well, you may be surprised to learn that the Oklahoma City Thunder's superstar forward picked up his 15th technical foul of the year during his team's 116-94 win over the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night.
Per ESPN.com, Durant is now tied with DeMarcus Cousins and Blake Griffin for the league lead in techs, with Lance Stephenson coming in at one technical behind with 14.
Plus, one more unfortunate confrontation with an official during the regular season would end up costing Durant a game.
Of course, at this point of the regular season, a one-game suspension for Durant would be relatively meaningless. The Thunder clinched the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with the win, and you know what? The Oklahoman's Anthony Slater has a point about getting Durant some rest.
In all seriousness, though, technical fouls may not seem all that severe, as they result in only one free throw for the opponent, but in the playoffs, one free throw could make all the difference in a game.
You have to hope that Durant keeps his emotions in check during the postseason, as it would be terrible for Oklahoma City to lose a game over KD vehemently arguing over a call with an official.
Durant, who recently saw his record-breaking streak of 41 straight contests with 25 or more points end, posted 27 points, six rebounds and five assists in 30 minutes during the Thunder's victory over the Pelicans. He shot 10-of-18 from the floor.
So, you know, it was just another day at the office for Durant, and unfortunately, technical fouls are starting to become a part of those run-of-the-mill performances.
With the victory, Oklahoma City also achieved another rather important distinction: It will have home-court advantage should it make it to the finals.
Of course, making it out of the West is another story entirely, and the San Antonio Spurs will be the No. 1 seed in the conference.
