Who's the next Kevin Durant? Looking at 5 NBA players who can emulate the Brooklyn Nets superstar

Charlotte Hornets v Brooklyn Nets
Charlotte Hornets v Brooklyn Nets

#3 Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram brings the ball up v Portland Trail Blazers
Brandon Ingram brings the ball up v Portland Trail Blazers

Brandon Ingram was drafted by the LA Lakers in 2016 where he showed signs of being a superstar early in his tenure. With a long and slim build, much like Durant's, Brandon Ingram possesses a skill set that reminds us of the Nets' superstar. Currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans, Ingram is part of their frontcourt trio that includes Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas.

Brandon Ingram's game features a smooth handle that helps him get to his spot on the floor. Creating isolation situations on the wing, Ingram is a frequent outside threat, shooting an improved 38.1% from downtown. Featuring a smooth mid-post game, he also uses his length to finish over defenders going to the rim, or he can stop and pop from the elbow.

Ingram's length allows him to guard three positions (1-2-3), but with a defensive rating of 114.6, this isn't a great sign. He also only averaged 4.9 rebounds for the 2020-2021 season.

#4 DeAndre Hunter

DeAndre Hunter warming up before the game v Brooklyn Nets
DeAndre Hunter warming up before the game v Brooklyn Nets

Drafted by the LA Lakers but traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 2019, DeAndre Hunter features a fundamentally sound style of basketball reminiscent of Kevin Durant.

With his ability to score at all levels, DeAndre Hunter was potentially one of the Hawks' best players coming into the 2020-2021 season. He often uses simple but effective combos to beat defenders or steps into spot-up three-point shots. Hunter showed that he was a reliable scorer for the team, scoring a career-high 33 points against the Milwaukee Bucks.

With the additional aid of muscle he put on in the offseason, Hunter became a heavier load going to the rim. Being a gifted defensive player, this muscle also helps in stabilizing while guarding bigger players.

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Unfortunately Hunter suffered various injuries which kept him sidelined for most of the season. Hunter shows a high ceiling for improvement and we can expect a breakout performance from him this upcoming NBA season.

#5 Jonathan Kuminga

Jonathan Kuminga 2021 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot
Jonathan Kuminga 2021 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot

Entering his rookie season playing for the Golden State Warriors, Jonathan Kuminga is one of the most talented prospects in the 2021 NBA Draft.

At only 18 years old, Kuminga possesses the physical attributes to be a star. At 6'8" tall with a 6'11" wingspan, Kuminga also boasts elite athleticism and jumping ability.

His shot-making ability is the key to his offensive upside. Kuminga possesses a holistic offensive skill set, rare for players his age. Having played in the NBA G League to prepare for the draft, Kuminga displayed the strength to finish at the rim amongst tough defenders.

A natural slasher with a comfortable handle on the ball, Jonathan Kuminga has also shown the potential to be a knockdown shooter from deep. With a smooth transition from dribble to shot, Kuminga's potential for growth is limitless.

Being able to create his own shot off the dribble and use the agility at his disposal to rebound and slash, it is evident how his game can resemble that of Kevin Durant.

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