The Phoenix Suns, at the start of the season, were perceived as the Western Conference’s team to beat. The addition of Bradley Beal to their core, which already featured stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, sparked high expectations. However, concerns about their depth lingered.
During the offseason, they actively addressed these depth issues, culminating in the formation of one of the league’s most formidable and versatile rosters. Later, they further bolstered their squad with seasoned players like Eric Gordon and Jusuf Nurkic.
Yet, as the season progressed, the Suns struggled to find their rhythm. Whether due to injuries or inconsistent performances, they found it challenging to keep up with other Western Conference contenders.
Kevin Durant, known for his reserved demeanor, believes that the team is fully aware of their predicament. Consequently, he doesn’t feel compelled to take on the role of motivating or instructing his teammates about the grind of the season.
Durant’s stance on this matter was articulated in a recent statement:
“We’re all pros in here. We’ve got multiple guys who have been in the league for 5+ years. If I got to tell them what’s coming next, I don’t think I should have to tell them what’s coming next. They know what the season is about.”
Durant’s leadership style has faced criticism in the past for being understated, but his argument holds merit. Professional athletes should not require external motivation or accountability; they are experienced veterans who comprehend the realities of the NBA, including the possibility of being traded before the deadline. Furthermore, they are acutely aware that they have half a season ahead of them to rectify their performance.
However, as the season marches on, time becomes a crucial factor. The Suns, at this juncture, appear far from the formidable contenders everyone anticipated them to be. The urgency to address their struggles looms large, and the clock is ticking for this star-studded team to regain their footing in the campaign.
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