1] Kevin Durant – Oklahoma City Thunder
For the second season running, Durant is having to cope without his explosive point guard Russell Westbrook for a prolonged period of time.
Last year it was more devastating given the injury came in the playoffs, but Durant must now lead his Thunder team through until late February and keep them on track for top spot in the West.
He has had his monster games scoring 30 points or more, but with Reggie Jackson, Jeremy Lamb and Serge Ibaka all stepping up, he has become a better all-round player getting his team-mates involved.
The Thunder will expect to have setbacks without Westbrook, but with his return, the franchise and Durant have everything they need to clear up this season.
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