Patrick Johnson 
Less than a year after taking home his first NBA MVP Trophy, Kevin Durant faced his most difficult challenge yet – overcoming numerous injuries while he watched his Oklahoma City Thunder squad just miss the playoffs without him. KD only played in 27 games total this season, and seeing him put on brief glimpses of his former self despite ditching his Nike KD 7 throughout the year due to ongoing foot problems frequently cemented the fact that he’d be back to full form soon enough. We’re currently noticing his absence from the NBA Playoffs, and although his Nike KD 7 Elite could be the most advanced offering in Durant’s Elite series run, he won’t be present to sell the product on the hardwood until early next year. But the Nike KD 7 Elite is still one of the most summer-ready models as you look forward to taking your talents to the blacktop.
Nike completely retooled the upper utilizing a posite base as the heel counter saw numerous gaudy perforations for added breathability. Aimed to not limit Durant’s ability on-court during the final stretch of the season, the shoe sheds any extra weight by ditching the forefoot strap for an even sleeker design in a construction perfect to withstand the summer heat. The first installment of the Nike KD 7 Elite dropped last Friday, and Nike will continue to release new colorways of the updated silhouette throughout the NBA Playoffs, with the final pair arriving in a “Rose Gold” in reference the Larry O’Brien trophy chase on June 5th. The shoe is a testament to what could’ve been this season, but you better believe that Durant will only return stronger due in part to the work he puts in this off-season. Grab the initial “Ignite” colorway today and be sure to check out the full feature over at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
