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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Phoenix Suns had to accept defeat to the Lakers as their hopes of moving ahead in the in-season tournament cracked. LA won with a 106-103 victory over the Suns. With Bradley Beal out, the Suns gave as good as they got, at times even taking the lead. But the Lakers were simply too much to overcome for Kevin Durant and co.

Talking about the same, KD gives props to the purple and gold for their performance, albeit grudgingly. When asked who he would pick as the potential winner for the in-season, he had quite a standard KD response.

Kevin Durant takes his pick for the In-Season Tournament winner

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Talking to media post-game, the 2x NBA champion seemed to have a cryptic explanation for his choice of the most likely candidate to win in-season. He says, “The Lakers because they beat us … It’s set up for them to win.”

Though it looks like Durant is taking it all in his stride, it is kind of obvious that he might be borderline bitter at the loss. Explaining further on his take, KD says that the Lakers have everything on their side – size, flight, and fans. Like he said, “set up for them to win.”

It is surely a disheartening situation. Always just two or three points behind and sometimes taking the lead, the Suns had a tough run. To be a contender in the first in-season along with the benefits it provides are enough reasons for disappointment.

The Suns look to get back on the regular season wheels

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With the prospect of Las Vegas out, Phoenix will be looking to capitalize on their regular season standings. Holding the seventh position in the Western Conference at 12-9, they will surely look forward to improving. With Bradley Beal still on the injury list for another 2 weeks or so, the eagerly-anticipated Big 3 debut is still looming in the distance.

Read More: Despite Injury Scare, Kevin Durant Extends Historic Run With Suns Against LeBron James and the Lakers

It’s clear that Kevin Durant has been the life source for the Suns. Averaging 31.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.2 blocks with 63.6% of TS, the ‘Slim Reaper’ has been a constant. Having him and Booker on-court has been an efficient medley of lethal shooters. Also, Allen and Gordon have managed to contribute in Beal’s absence.

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Phoenix will be squaring off against a disgruntled Kings. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker in top shape will be necessary against Sacramento’s offense. Anyway, KD has chosen his pick for the winner. What are your thoughts on the same? Will the Lakers be crowned In-Season winners?

Watch This Story: Kevin Durant Pinpoints What Takes Suns to “Another Level”