Will Phoenix Make a Trade as the Suns Struggle with Kevin Durant?

by

Dec 27, 2023

Sitting with a precarious 14-15 NBA record, the Phoenix Suns are confronting an all-too-familiar narrative with Kevin Durant at the center of the conversation. Since Durant’s departure from the Golden State Warriors, a recurring theme has followed: high expectations clouded by misfortune and roster issues.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

Now, in Phoenix, it seems the pattern persists. The Suns, who were expected to be contenders, stumbled on Christmas night with a loss to the Dallas Mavericks and have shown inconsistency in games against subpar teams like the Washington Wizards and the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Suns’ struggles have sparked speculation that significant changes are imminent. Reports suggest Durant’s frustration with the team’s composition, echoing concerns from his time with the Brooklyn Nets. In Brooklyn, Durant faced similar issues with a star-studded lineup that often failed to play together due to injuries and chemistry issues, leading to a thin bench and unmet potential.

The question looming over Phoenix is what comes next. Will the Suns choose to make a trade? And if so, who will be the one to go? There’s speculation that Durant, known for seeking new horizons when situations sour, could request a trade despite the challenges of moving a superstar of his caliber, especially considering his age at 35.

Check out SportsGrid’s NBA game picks and NBA Props Picks all Season Long.

Durant’s history of team changes has become a point of criticism. After leaving OKC, where he couldn’t clinch a championship, he joined and won with the Warriors, only to move to Brooklyn, where synergy issues plagued the team. Now, with the Suns, the cycle appears to be repeating. If Phoenix doesn’t turn their season around, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Durant seek another move.

This pattern of seeking new teams instead of persevering through adversity is contrasted with the old-school mentality of NBA legends like Reggie MillerJohn Stockton, and Patrick Ewing, who are revered for their loyalty and determination to overcome challenges with their respective teams.

Durant’s next move will be closely watched as the Suns navigate through this turbulence. Will he stick it out in Phoenix and strive to rectify the situation, or will he again look for greener pastures? Only time will tell, but the Suns and Durant are at a crossroads, facing a pivotal moment that could define their season and beyond.

Do you have all the intel you need to win? Free actionable info is one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter, SportsGrid Daily. 

Thumbnail photo via Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Picked For You