The Phoenix Suns gave up a monster package to get Kevin Durant, including Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, and four first-round draft picks. Mat Ishbia just bought the franchise and wanted to make an immediate splash. There are few bigger than trading for one of the best players in the world. KD helped the Suns win one playoff series so far, but the franchise hopes Mike Budenholzer taking over as head coach will change things.
Phoenix lost in the opening round of the playoffs in 2024, but Durant was hardly to blame. He played 75 regular season games for the first time since 2019 and was an All-Star and second-team All-NBA. Durantula was getting buckets throughout, but the Suns just did not have enough around him to make a serious run.
Those questioning Durant witnessed what the 35-year-old could still do on the biggest stage. He overcame a calf injury to have a record-setting time in Paris. Here is a look at what KD did and why it should give Suns supporters hope.
Kevin Durant trade looks even better for the Suns after the Olympics
The 6’11 forward won his fourth Olympic gold medal and broke Lisa Leslie’s Team USA scoring record in Paris. Durant was head coach Steve Kerr’s sniper. He came off the bench in the first five games before being a starter in the gold medal contest. The Slim Reaper was willing to embrace any role and help his country however possible.
Durant averaged 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 steal in 22.2 minutes per game in Paris. It was his lowest scoring and minutes total in any Olympics, but KD was recovering from an injury throughout camp. He missed the entire exhibition slate, but the Americans knew Durant would shine when needed most.
Durant had 15 points and four dimes in the gold medal win over France. Victor Wembanyama and company pushed Team USA but came up short. Stephen Curry gets the headlines for going nuclear late, but Durant played a key role in that win and is arguably the greatest FIBA player in United States history.
Kevin Durant can lead a talented squad to a championship. He did it in Golden State and with Team USA. KD wants to lift the Suns to those heights, but it is never easy. Phoenix has no regrets about this trade as Devin Booker and Durant played key roles on the gold medal winner. They can certainly win with the right roster around them, but it may never happen.
Kevin Durant is still in his prime and capable of lifting a franchise to new heights. He is a proven winner, which is why Team USA loves KD. The Suns enjoyed watching Durantula ball in Paris and everyone hopes he can translate it back to his NBA team. He wants to bring a title to the Valley, but it won’t be easy in the loaded Western Conference.
The Phoenix Suns upgraded their roster this summer and believe they can contend. It will come down to health and chemistry. Expect KD to shine, but he needs everyone else to step up. Only time will tell if they can make it happen.