The Phoenix Suns fans finally breathed a sigh of relief when Bradley Beal returned to the line-up on December 29 against the Charlotte Hornets. He had been out for 5 games due to a horrific ankle sprain. Beal had an off night upon his return, but it took just one game for the Big 3 to figure things out. Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal combined for 77 points in the last game to give Phoenix a win.
But just 2 games into the Big-3 reunion, Suns fans received concerning news about the health of Kevin Durant. Find out what happened to the 2-time champion ahead of tonight’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Kevin Durant’s injury report
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NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Kevin Durant will miss tonight’s game against the Trail Blazers due to a right hamstring soreness. That is a massive blow for the Phoenix Suns, as they were finally starting to pick up some pace after Bradley Beal’s return. KD has played at an elite level throughout the season, averaging 29.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6 assists. He has been the most consistent Suns superstar among the Big-3 and has played the most games this season. The severity of KD’s injury is unknown, and it is uncertain when he will return to action.
Suns star Kevin Durant is out tonight vs. Trail Blazers due to right hamstring soreness.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 1, 2024
Phoenix cannot afford to lose Kevin Durant for a long time because they are struggling to stay in the playoff picture. They are currently ranked 8th in the Western Conference standings with a 17-15 record. Forward Chimezie Metu might see some increased minutes in tonight’s game in KD’s absence. He is averaging 5.5 points and 3.2 rebounds this season. Metu played 17 minutes in the last game and scored 6 points and 6 rebounds.
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Read More: Snubbed Kevin Durant Slaps Back at NBA 2023’s Best Players’ List With a Stern 4-Worded Message
Bradley Beal and Devin Booker will need to step up in KD’s absence
Kevin Durant has been carrying the load of the Phoenix Suns for the majority of the season. Now that KD has been ruled out due to an injury, it is time for Bradley Beal and Devin Booker to do their part. Booker has been playing great since his return, averaging 27.1 points, 8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds. Phoenix can bank on Booker to carry the load in Durant’s absence. Bradley Beal, on the other hand, has been inconsistent because of the time he missed due to injury.
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He has played only 8 games so far. Beal finally had a decent performance in the last game against the Orlando Magic. He went off for 25 points. Phoenix is on a 3-game winning streak, and it is up to Beal and Booker to extend their winning streak in Kevin Durant’s absence.
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