In the final hours of the trade deadline, Kevin Durant made his way to the Phoenix Suns. This happened after the Brooklyn Nets and the Suns shook hands on a trade package. The package included Durant and other stars like Mikal Bridges and T.J. Warren. This news was a bolt out of the blue for the NBA Community. Days later, the shock is wearing off as reality is setting in – Kevin Durant is a star on the Phoenix Suns roster. Earlier today, the two-time finals MVP was formally introduced to the Phoenix fans. Amidst the budding excitement, NBA Shaquille O’Neal weighed in with his opinion that revolved around a Stephen Curry-like scenario.
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During the introductory event, Durant spoke about winning a championship for the Suns. As mentioned in a report by ESPN, he said, “I think we got all the pieces to be successful.” With the likes of Devin Booker, DeAndre Ayton, and coach Monty Williams on the team, the Suns do have a healthy chance to win a championship. However, according to Shaq, they will require a little more than just champion players.
Shaquille O’Neal on Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns
The Big Diesel believed that a change in attitude among the Suns roster will be key to their success. He emphasized that Devin Booker’s attitude shift will be of utmost importance.
On the latest episode of Inside the NBA, the four-time NBA Champion said, ?It?s not easy for a guy who is the man, and Devin Booker is the man, to set up aside and say, ?I?m not the man, you are the man.??
Shaquille O’Neal added that sacrifices are to be made in the team, and everyone has to be selfless. Furthermore, the NBA Legend voiced that the team needs to have clarity with each player’s roles and responsibilities to be successful. The blueprint that Shaq is hinting at has already been tried and tested with regards to Durant.
Stephen Curry’s attitude shift
In 2016, Durant made his way to the Golden State Warriors. At that point, the Warriors had bagged one championship trophy while flaunting a star-studded roster. Durant’s inclusion added to the depth and strength of the team. However, there was a shift in the dynamic.
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Experts claim that the franchise’s ace, Stephen Curry, had to change his attitude and approach. From being first in command, the two-time MVP switched roles and stepped aside for Durant to take control.
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This selfless act worked seemingly well for the Warriors as they bagged two championship titles while reaching the NBA Finals on four occasions. Hence, as per Shaq, this is exactly what Booker needs to do and if it works, the Suns will soon be an unstoppable franchise.