In a quote on the cover of Sports Illustrated, Kevin Durant lamented his runner-up status that he believes has plagued him throughout his basketball career.

"I've been second my whole life," said Durant. "I was the second-best player in high school. I was the second pick in the draft. I've been second in the MVP voting three times. I came in second in The Finals. I'm tired of being second.

"I'm done with it."

Durant presumably will come in second in MVP voting behind LeBron James again this season despite a historical season for himself by all accounts.

Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder also enter the playoffs as one of the favorites to win the Western Conference, but are considered by most to be underdogs should they again face the Miami Heat.