Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Kevin Durant has reclaimed his ‘slim reaper’ role for the Phoenix Suns this season. He has truly solidified himself as the team’s most reliable and consistent performer, especially during the ups and downs surrounding other superstars. Despite rotation struggles and injury amidst Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, Durant has been instrumental in keeping the Suns competitive in the longer ball game.

However, Durant is currently grappling with his own challenges. Before the Suns’ intense battle against the Portland Trail Blazers, Durant had to be sidelined due to right hamstring soreness. KD was disclosed to be out on a day-to-day basis, with an expected return shortly.

Will Kevin Durant play against the Clippers?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Following a triumphant victory against the Blazers, the Suns are gearing up for a clash with the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the release of their injury report ahead of Wednesday’s showdown indicates that they will be without the services of Kevin Durant.

So far, KD has played in 28 out of 33 games for the Suns this season, missing five games due to various ankle and foot ailments. Initially, fans speculated that Durant was strategically rested for a back-to-back game night. However, Frank Vogel debunked the notion, asserting that Durant had tweaked his hamstring in the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic.

As the Suns and Clippers prepare to face off for the first time this season, the Clippers are riding a hot streak; winning 12 out of their last 14 games and securing the No. 4 seed in the West. Meanwhile, the Suns are holding onto the No. 8 spot, making this upcoming clash an intriguing battle for playoff positioning.

Read More – Suns’ Kevin Durant Has a New Struggle, Days After Putting “Frustration” Rumors to Bed

KD is reliving his Nets situation in the Suns

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The potential of the Suns’ recent roster is undeniably immense, boasting three starters who can lead a franchise on their own. However, despite this promise, their performance has fallen short midway through the season, primarily due to a string of injuries.

Adding to the challenges are salary cap restrictions and severe tax penalties, highlighting additional concerns for the Suns. A major issue they face is the thinness of their roster, hampering their ability to execute efficient rotations.

The Suns’ current situation draws parallels with Kevin Durant’s time with the Brooklyn Nets. Like the Suns, the Nets had a top-heavy squad with Durant alongside Kyrie Irving and James Harden. Despite Durant’s stellar on-court performances, they struggled to dominate their competition at several points. Harden’s availability issues in the Nets lineup can be likened to Bradley Beal’s absence, albeit for different reasons. However, Durant, much like his time with the Nets, is showcasing an unwavering determination to win.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

However, just like the Nets, the Suns are eyeing greater success than they have achieved so far.

Watch This Story – Stephen Curry yells heart out in joy after breaking Warriors rut