Skip Bayless claims Kevin Durant is inspired by LeBron James, effuses praise on both veteran superstars: "Hottest start in 18 seasons"

Sports analyst Skip Bayless talked about Kevin Durant, discussing his similarities with LeBron James. Durant is playing in his 18th NBA season, third season with the Phoenix Suns and isn't showing any signs of aging. As of this writing, Durant, 36, is still playing at the level he did during his younger years.

Bayless pointed out on X, formerly Twitter, that Durant is off to a hot start this 2024-25 season. His Phoenix Suns have an 8-1 record after defeating the Dallas Mavericks on Friday. The Suns are the top team in the Western Conference.

Aside from having a good start to his season, Bayless also mentioned how Kevin Durant's performance this year is inspired by LeBron James. The LA Lakers star is turning 40 years old this coming December and is playing as if he's still in his prime.

"KD is off to his hottest start in his 17 seasons, at age 36, leading the NBA in clutch points as Suns rise to 8-1 with tight win at Mavs. No doubt he's inspired by what LeBron is doing at going on 40. Both are turning back their clocks."

Bayless mentioned that Durant has played 17 seasons. But "KD" is currently playing in his 18th season.

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Looking at Kevin Durant's performances so far

NBA: Phoenix Suns at Dallas Mavericks - Source: Imagn

After winning the gold medal in Paris, Kevin Durant seems inspired to win in the NBA now. Durant had an efficient 26-point outing and shot 50% from beyond the arc and 57.1% overall in Friday's win.

Durant has consistently provided efficient numbers for the Suns. After nine games into their season, he is averaging 27.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.4 blocks. The only other player we've seen perform at the same level throughout his career is LeBron James.

At the pace that the Suns are going, they might have a shot at winning the second NBA Cup, previously known as the NBA In-Season Tournament. If that happens, Skip Bayless' comparison of Kevin Durant and LeBron James will become more concrete.