The Phoenix Suns have been patiently waiting to unveil their newest addition, Kevin Durant. The team had an NBA blockbuster deal with the Brooklyn Nets ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring Durant and T.J. Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, and four first-round picks.
It was a massive transaction that changed the landscape of the league. The Suns are now considered by many the favorites to win the Western Conference while the Nets’ championship window is officially closed.
Durant has been sidelined since January 8th because of an MCL sprain. He has been ramping up his activity in practice the last two weeks, taking part with his new teammates. Long practices were one of the last steps in the recovery process and after Tuesday’s, it was announced that he will be making his long-awaited debut on Wednesday night against the Charlotte Hornets.
“I was having fun out there before I got injured, so looking forward to going out there and picking up where I left off,” said Durant. “I know it ain’t gonna be that smooth. It’s gonna take me some time to get used to everything early on, but as far as just having fun and just getting lost in the game, I’m looking forward to doing that again.”
NBA NEWS: Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns & Charlotte Hornets Updates
Durant was having an excellent season with the Nets before going down with the injury. He was averaging 29.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists before being traded. His performance was at an MVP level carrying the Nets along with Kyrie Irving, who was also traded away to the Dallas Mavericks.
Durant dealt with a similar injury last season and missed 20 games. This time, he missed 19, but the biggest difference will be his workload upon returning. He will be on a minutes restriction for a few games after jumping right back into the fire last season and playing 30 minutes right away.
The Suns will have their work cut out for them as integrating any new players into the rotation is a challenge. But, when that player is someone with the gravitas of Durant, it takes a little more time and effort.
NBA NEWS: Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns & Charlotte Hornets Updates
“Obviously, there’s excitement, there’s all the stuff that goes with it, but for me, it’s allowing him to blend and figure out things we do,” head coach Monty Williams said. “But also learn from him based on his skill set, experience and, um, IQ of the game. You know I think it’s a great opportunity for us to grow.”
The Suns have quite a quartet for opponents to deal with now. Adding Durant to Devin Booker, Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton makes them a very strong team on both ends of the court. This is a team with championship aspirations that can hang with every team in the league.
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