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Durant Surpasses Abdul-Jabbar for No. 2 on NBA All-Time Scoring List

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 15:07 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: California, Texas, Wisconsin, New York, Ohio, UNITED STATES

Houston, TX - February 1st, 2026 - Kevin Durant's relentless scoring prowess reached another historic peak on Saturday night, as he officially overtook Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the No. 2 spot on the NBA's all-time scoring list. While the box score showed 36 points in the Houston Rockets' narrow 106-103 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the numbers tell only a fraction of the story. Durant's career total now stands at an astounding 38,656 points, eclipsing Abdul-Jabbar's legendary mark of 38,387. The milestone isn't just a numerical achievement; it signifies Durant's sustained excellence and evolution as one of the game's most gifted offensive players.

For context, Abdul-Jabbar's reign as one of the top two scorers lasted decades. To surpass him is a testament to Durant's longevity and consistency, maintained through multiple franchise changes and a serious injury that sidelined him for an extended period. The fact that Durant has achieved this while navigating a competitive landscape vastly different from Abdul-Jabbar's era adds to the significance.

A Career Built on Efficiency and Versatility

Durant's ascent isn't simply about volume scoring. His career numbers paint a picture of remarkable efficiency: a staggering 27.8 points per game, a .508 field goal percentage, a solid .383 from three-point range, and an almost unbelievable .894 free throw percentage. These stats highlight a player who isn't merely taking shots, but making shots with remarkable consistency, from all areas of the court. He's a master of all offensive techniques - post moves, pull-up jumpers, drives to the basket, and the ever-dangerous step-back. This versatility makes him exceptionally difficult to defend, contributing to his sustained scoring output.

Furthermore, Durant's scoring profile has adapted throughout his career. Early in his tenure with the Seattle Supersonics/Oklahoma City Thunder, he relied more heavily on isolation plays and mid-range jumpers. As the league shifted towards a more three-point oriented game, Durant seamlessly integrated that into his repertoire, becoming a lethal threat from beyond the arc. This adaptation is a key factor in his longevity and continued success.

The Pursuit of the King: Closing the Gap on LeBron James

While passing Abdul-Jabbar is a monumental achievement, the ultimate target remains LeBron James, who currently holds the top spot with 40,474 points. Durant currently trails by 1,818 points. Given Durant's scoring pace, analysts estimate it would take approximately one and a half seasons to close that gap if both players remain healthy. However, the calculation is more complex than simple division. LeBron, while still playing at a high level for the Los Angeles Lakers, is entering the twilight of his career and may experience a natural decline in scoring. Durant, at 38, is showing no signs of slowing down, though maintaining peak performance at his age remains a challenge.

Interestingly, the dynamic between Durant and James has defined the modern NBA. Their head-to-head matchups have consistently been showcases of offensive brilliance. This pursuit of the all-time scoring record is not just a statistical race, but a symbolic passing of the torch between two of the game's greatest players.

Looking Ahead: Rockets and Durant's Legacy

Durant's arrival in Houston has injected a dose of excitement and contention into the Western Conference. While the Rockets fell short against the Cavaliers on the night he passed Abdul-Jabbar, their potential remains high. The team is built around Durant's scoring ability, and their success will largely depend on how well they can complement him with complementary players and a strong defensive system.

Beyond the immediate goals of winning a championship, Durant's place in NBA history is secure. He joins an exclusive club of scoring titans, and his impact on the game extends beyond just the numbers. He's inspired a generation of players with his smooth offensive game and unwavering dedication. Even if he doesn't surpass LeBron James, his achievements will be celebrated for decades to come, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest scorers the NBA has ever seen.