Kevin Durant is coming for Michael Jordan. In the world of basketball, a few names carry the weight of legends—Michael Jordan is undoubtedly one of those names. His iconic career in the NBA, the six championships with the Chicago Bulls, and his unparalleled skill on the court make him the gold standard for many fans and players. But now, one player is inching closer to passing Jordan on the all-time scoring list, and that player is none other than Kevin Durant.
As of the end of the 2024-2025 NBA season, Michael Jordan has 32,292 points in his career, a number that has stood as one of the pillars of NBA greatness. But with Kevin Durant currently sitting at 30,571 career points, just 1,721 points behind the six-time NBA champion, it seems inevitable that Durant will surpass Jordan in the very near future. The thought of Kevin Durant climbing past Michael Jordan on the all-time scoring list is an exciting prospect for basketball fans, as it represents the evolution of the game and the rise of new legends.
Durant’s career trajectory has been nothing short of spectacular. After entering the NBA as the second overall pick in the 2007 draft, Durant’s scoring prowess has been undeniable. Known for his scoring versatility, Durant has the ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court—whether it’s shooting a jumper over defenders, driving to the basket with ease, or using his length and skill to dominate in isolation. Over his illustrious career, Durant has accumulated scoring titles, NBA championships, and countless accolades, making him one of the most prolific players to ever step onto an NBA court.
Jordan’s 32,292 points seemed like a number that would stand for years to come, especially given the way the game has evolved since his time in the league. With the way modern NBA offenses have shifted towards more fast-paced, three-point shooting systems, the idea of a player surpassing Jordan’s scoring total felt like a far-off notion. However, Durant’s consistency and ability to remain at the top of his game year after year has made this milestone more and more achievable.
To truly understand how Durant is on the verge of passing Jordan, it’s essential to look at the numbers and the timeline. Durant is currently 1,721 points behind Jordan, which may seem like a substantial gap. However, considering Durant’s scoring pace over the last few seasons, it becomes evident that he could pass Jordan within the next season or two, assuming his health remains intact. Durant has consistently averaged around 25-30 points per game for much of his career, and even in his more recent years, his scoring output has remained impressive.
Durant’s ability to score efficiently is a key factor in his pursuit of this milestone. Unlike other players who rely on a heavy volume of shots to accumulate points, Durant is known for his efficiency. He has a career field goal percentage of 49.4%, a three-point percentage of 38%, and a free throw percentage of 88.3%. This ability to score efficiently has allowed Durant to remain a consistent offensive force throughout his career, even as he moves through different stages of his professional journey.
Looking at the current landscape of the NBA, Durant is still playing at an elite level, and barring injury or significant changes to his role on his team, he could continue to accumulate points at a rate that brings him closer to Jordan’s all-time total. Durant’s scoring ability, coupled with his durability, means that he could realistically pass Jordan during the upcoming season if he continues to play in a similar role as he has in recent years. Assuming Durant stays healthy and plays the majority of the upcoming season, he could easily average 25 points per game over the course of 70-80 games, which would put him on track to surpass Jordan’s point total with a few games to spare.
The idea of Durant surpassing Jordan on the all-time scoring list brings up an interesting discussion about the evolution of the game. When Jordan played, the game was different—more physical, slower-paced, and with a greater reliance on mid-range shooting. Today’s NBA, however, places a higher emphasis on three-point shooting, perimeter offense, and faster transitions. Durant has been a product of this evolution, excelling in all aspects of the modern game. His scoring is versatile, and his skill set is unparalleled. He’s not just a scorer in the traditional sense—he’s a complete offensive weapon who can score in numerous ways, making him a nightmare for defenders.
It’s worth noting that Durant’s impending passing of Jordan isn’t just a matter of his scoring ability—it’s also a testament to his longevity. Durant has been able to sustain a high level of play despite dealing with injuries that have sidelined him for portions of his career. When he was drafted in 2007, many thought his scoring ability would propel him to greatness, but the fact that he has continued to produce at an elite level well into his 30s shows just how special his career has been. Durant’s consistency in putting up high-scoring seasons, combined with his ability to stay relatively healthy, makes him a rare and exceptional talent in NBA history.
It’s also important to consider the historical context of surpassing a figure like Michael Jordan. For many, Jordan is the embodiment of basketball greatness. His impact on the game transcends his on-court achievements. He revolutionized the way basketball players approach the game, with his drive, determination, and competitive nature setting a benchmark for generations to come. Jordan’s influence on the sport is immeasurable, and he remains one of the most recognizable athletes in the world. For Durant to be on the verge of surpassing Jordan on the all-time scoring list is a testament to how much the game has evolved since Jordan’s era, but also a reflection of Durant’s undeniable talent and legacy.
While Durant’s journey to surpassing Jordan is significant, it should not overshadow the fact that Jordan’s place in history is firmly secure. Jordan may be surpassed on the all-time scoring list, but his legacy as a six-time NBA champion, five-time NBA MVP, and cultural icon will always hold a special place in the hearts of basketball fans around the world. Durant’s career may be on the rise, but Jordan’s place as one of the greatest to ever play the game will never be erased.
Nevertheless, as Durant approaches this milestone, it signals a new chapter in NBA history. The passing of Jordan on the all-time scoring list by Durant will undoubtedly spark debate among fans and analysts about who the greatest of all time truly is. But regardless of the outcome of those debates, one thing remains clear: Kevin Durant is a once-in-a-generation talent whose place in basketball history is already secure.
With his scoring ability, versatility, and drive, Durant is not just chasing records—he’s cementing his own legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game. The idea of him passing Michael Jordan is just one chapter in what promises to be an even more remarkable career. Fans will continue to watch closely as Durant climbs the all-time scoring list, and for now, all eyes are on what comes next in his pursuit of basketball immortality.
