The Phoenix Suns have hit a rough patch, dropping 15 of their last 21 games and sliding to 11th place in the Western Conference. This unexpected collapse is frustrating their star guard, Devin Booker, after such a promising start to the season.
After suffering a fresh defeat against the Memphis Grizzlies, who were missing their star Ja Morant, the alarm bells are ringing in Phoenix. It’s been over a month of mediocrity for the Suns, who are grappling with persistent issues, particularly on the defensive end (ranked 21st in the NBA).
Booker’s Call to Action
Returning from a five-game injury hiatus, Devin Booker took on his leadership role head-on and shared his thoughts at a post-game press conference:
“Frustration level’s high. We’re all competitors here, and we understand that these games will cost us down the line. We want to gain some ground, climb out of the play-in spot, and win every game we can.”
Devin Booker on the Suns’ frustration level: “Frustration level’s high. We’re all competitors in here, and we realize these games are gonna cost us in the end of the season….We wanna gain some ground, get up out of the play-in position and just win every possible game.” pic.twitter.com/pkbUHu4WLV
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) January 1, 2025
Durant Reflects on Individual Responsibility
Kevin Durant, always the introspective veteran, also weighed in on the struggles, opting for personal accountability over finger-pointing:
“I feel like I can do so much out there, I just gotta be better. And I believe every player in the locker room has that same mentality. If we all look in the mirror, we’ll be a better team!”
Kevin Durant on the Suns needing improvement: “I feel like I can do so much out there, I just feel like I gotta be better. And I feel like every player in the locker room got that same mentality. So we all look in the mirror, we’ll be a better team.” pic.twitter.com/Cg6zfhNOj5
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) January 1, 2025
Time for Change
Despite averaging nearly 28 points and 7 rebounds per game with over 40% shooting from deep, Durant knows there’s room for improvement. Great players set high standards for themselves, and something’s gotta give if the Suns are to turn this ship around, especially in the unforgiving Western Conference.
Looking ahead, the schedule presents a golden opportunity for head coach Mike Budenholzer’s squad. Their next 12 games include matchups against the Pacers, Sixers, Hornets (twice), Hawks (twice), Jazz, Wizards (twice), Pistons, Cavaliers, and Nets. It’s a favorable stretch that could help the Arizona team claw their way back into contention!
Source: Gerald Bourguet