Golden State Warriors superstar Kevin Durant has seen a massive increase in ejections this season, with five of his six total ejections coming this season, the most since Larry Sanders’ five in 2013.
After his latest ejection in Thursday’s loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in which the star forward earned two technical fouls before halftime, the nine-time All-Star explained the reason for his uptick in techs this season, according to Chris Haynes of ESPN:
“It’s just my emotions and passion for the game. After winning that championship (last season), I learned that much hadn’t changed. I thought it would fill a certain [void]. It didn’t. That’s when I realized in the offseason that the only thing that matters is this game and how much work you put into it. Everything else off the court, social media, perception, isn’t important. What people say, how they view you, it’s not important.
What we did as a team was special, and I want to experience that again. My love and passion for the game has [blossomed] because I understand that’s what it’s all about, and I’m pouring all of this [newfound thirst] into this game. But I know I have to keep [my fire] under control, and I will.”
This ejection, which came in Durant’s return from a fractured rib, was earned after he was handed his 13th and 14th technical fouls of the season, pushing him just two away from an automatic one-game suspension. Obviously, it would be in Durant’s best interest to tone it down heading into the postseason, as the Golden State Warriors can’t afford to lose one of their top players in a playoff game, especially if two-time MVP Stephen Curry isn’t able to compete in the first round.
