Awesome review.... Im a 34 year old 5'9 220lb runner....not baller. We do have something in common. I own a pair of Lebron Xs (Pure Platinums) and are on the countdown waiting for the Mic Drops. I can compare the Lebron X/KD9 to how i relate my rumnimg shoes. From any initial first looks, you notice the Lebron zoom bag unit sit higher and is not flexible in the forefoot. The KD9 visually sits lower and you can barely see the medial side of the zoom. That flex groove with zoom added makes a huge difference for explosiveness.
Running shoes are similar in how they perform. If the heel to toe (measured in mm) is too low/high then it could cause problem with over worked calves/back problems etc... Ive gone through several runners to find the one that dont give me shin splints or have me with sore legs after long runs. Thats why its important to find which shoe best fits your feet and your style of play.
Since the Lebron X surface with full length Zoom max, Nike didn't really toy with the full length Zoom setup until the KD8. We all know they had mixed reviews, more bad than good, with the upper being unforgiving and the zoom being stiff. Others went on to say they did lossen up and the responsiveness of the zoom felt better after a break in period. From the feedback on here they're still mixed reviews on the KD9 initially getting your foot in the shoe. Some said the fit was snug/loose but sizing up or down gave them the fit they desired. However, surely almost everyone has agreed that the cushioning on the KD9 felt great right out the box. Seems like Nike might of hit the sweet spot for a great performer/great aesthetically looking a sneaker.
.. and it was a ... gettin em off 
