The Phoenix Suns had one of the most disappointing seasons after adding yet another All-Star to the lineup. Having Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Beal on the roster, the Suns couldn’t manage to get past the Timberwolves in the first round. Out of all the teams, the Suns were not on the list of getting swept in the first round. This was followed by the front office firing Frank Vogel and bringing in Mike Budenholzer as the next head coach. The former coach of the year is yet to structure his coaching staff in Phoenix.
Mike has some names on his list including David Fizdale, Mike Hopkins, Vince Legarza, and others. While this may be his squad of handling the three All-Stars, the Suns will be expecting a decent season next year. Amidst Mike’s coaching staff selection, there are rumors surrounding Booker’s possible departure from Phoenix. However, this is only possible if the Suns decide to move on from the trio. They may not let Durant go, but Booker will be the first to depart especially if the Rockets look to trade for him.
Sources have informed @azcentral the Phoenix Suns aren't looking to trade Kevin Durant and the Suns are "riding" with Devin Booker, Bradley Beal and Durant. #Suns pic.twitter.com/Fn8NWyV5ny
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) June 26, 2024
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Budenholzer will try his best to make things work in Phoenix, being a five-time champion himself. Not only would Booker be an active name in trade talks, but the Suns would also be open to trade for KD if the demands are just right. However, Budenholzer seems to be on a mission trying to get the trio to run it back. As of now, Kevin Durant and Booker wouldn’t want to leave Phoenix, as Mike wants the trio to get back at it differently this time. If all goes right, none of the All-Stars from the squad will look to make an exit.
It won’t be easy handling the three elite scorers and maintaining a balance. The Suns have struggled to perform ever since their recent Finals trip. While KD and company will have a lot to prove next season, Budenholzer and his upcoming coaching staff will also play a major role in the Suns’ performance next season.
Kevin Durant and the Suns don’t have as long
Durant’s contract will expire in 2026, giving him two more seasons to work with the Suns. KD has been part of a big three in the past, but that didn’t go as expected. Other than that, Durant’s only successful superteam has been with the Warriors. The two-time champ has been performing consistently, though the Suns’ supporting cast hasn’t been up to expectations. Last year, they brought in Bradley Beal, who at best would be a backup scorer. However, Beal’s production was significantly less than expected at the start of the season.
Whereas this year, the Suns introduced a new head coach with a new coaching staff. Not a long time ago, the Suns were the worst team in the league. In the same context, they’ve done fantastic in terms of growing, but with such a roster, the Suns are to be considered contenders instead of a playoff team.
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It will be interesting to see what changes Budenholzer brings as he completes his coaching staff roster. What are your thoughts on KD and the Suns? Let us know in the comments.
For more interesting NBA content, make sure to watch our conversation with Leonard Armato, who speaks about the Lakers, Shaq, and more in the video below.
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