Even before the arrival of Kevin Durant, the Suns were burdened with great expectations. Between Devin Booker, Chris Paul, Mikal Bridges, and Deandre Ayton, the Suns had enough firepower to go all the way.
But now, with a 2x Finals MVP on the squad, the feeling has changed within the organization.
As Deandre Ayton put it in a recent chat with the media, Durant’s arrival has everyone locked in and ready to compete to a whole new degree.
“I think everybody’s competitive levels have risen a little bit. The atmosphere around the facility has, I don’t want to say got intense, but it’s definitely a little dense when it comes to handling business. Ain’t no more playing games. Less smiles, more seriousness.”
Ayton: "I think everybody's competitive levels have risen a little bit. The atmosphere around the facility has, I don't want to say got intense, but it's definitely a little dense when it comes to handling business. Ain't no more playing games. Less smiles, more seriousness."
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) February 23, 2023
Durant is a hooper and a competitor at heart, so it’s no surprise that he’s instilling a fire in the Suns. Besides being an All-NBA level talent, Durant also brings leadership and direction to a franchise that has been trying to get over the hump for years.
The question is, can they get it done this season or will they need more time to gel?
Kevin Durant Has To Take The Reigns In Phoenix
If KD wants to find success in his new NBA home, he’s going to have to step up as the unquestioned leader of the club. In Golden State, he took a backseat as Stephen Curry drove the bus. This time, though, KD has to be the one leading the show.
“There’s a tremendous amount of pressure on him. He should lead that team. If they win it, older guys like myself will give him the credit,” said Charles Barkley. “He’s sensitive about it but he don’t get to change the narrative.”
There is no question that the Suns have enough talent to win multiple NBA championships. With Durant, Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and (of course) the big man Deandre Ayton, Phoenix is poised to take over the NBA.
The KD factor is real and his impact on the Suns is already being felt despite having not played a single game for them yet.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
