Kevin Durant Emphasizes Patience and Team Chemistry as Suns Climb Western Conference Standings

As the Phoenix Suns secure six straight victories, including impressive comebacks, they’ve surged into the top six of the competitive Western Conference. The team’s success is attributed to patience, trial and error, and the growing comfort among players, according to star player Kevin Durant.

Durant highlighted the challenges faced by the Suns at the beginning of the season, dealing with injuries, a new head coach in Frank Vogel, and the integration of stars like Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. The learning curve involved understanding each other’s playing styles and establishing chemistry, a process that takes time.

“We understand what the business is like and just try to stay patient and keep grinding and get healthy,” Durant remarked, acknowledging the pressure and expectations on the team.

The Suns have experienced notable individual performances, with Devin Booker scoring 52 points in a recent game against the Pelicans, and Durant himself contributing significantly with a 30-point second half and a game-winner in the most recent victory. Durant emphasized the simplicity of finding the hot hand when the team’s defense transitions into offense.

The coaching staff has also experimented with lineups, including going small with Durant at the center position, a strategy Durant is familiar with from his previous teams. He sees the advantage of creating space with four shooters around him and believes it makes the Suns unpredictable and challenging for opponents.

Regarding the possibility of a Suns championship, Durant remains focused on the collective experience rather than individual accolades. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the experience with his teammates and the city, emphasizing that the journey is more significant than personal legacies.

“I don’t really concern myself with that. I’m just enjoying the experience. If I get an opportunity to go through that experience with this group or with this city, I’ll be more than grateful and happy that I was able to do it,” Durant stated. Regardless of the outcome, he remains committed to giving his best for the city and his teammates every day.