Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Kevin Durant’s future in Phoenix is growing more uncertain as the Suns continue to slide out of playoff contention. However, the team is reportedly considering a major move to keep the 15-time All-Star on board.
According to Ashish Mathur of Hoops Wire, the Suns have not ruled out firing head coach Mike Budenholzer to appease Durant and Devin Booker. Neither star is believed to have a strong relationship with Budenholzer, and tensions have been evident in his first season with the team.
Durant and Budenholzer had a heated sideline exchange two weeks ago, which KD brushed off as competitive passion. But the frustration boiled over again on Sunday, when Durant appeared visibly upset during a timeout in the Suns’ 107-96 loss to the Lakers.
Reports indicate Budenholzer questioned Durant about why Luka Doncic was getting so many open looks. Durant declined to speak with the media after the game.
The Suns explored trading Durant to the Warriors before last month’s deadline, but the 36-year-old shut down the idea of a midseason move. That stance could change after the season, especially if Phoenix can’t turn things around.
Budenholzer, who won a championship with the Bucks in 2021, was brought in to maximize the Suns’ star trio of Durant, Booker, and Bradley Beal—but so far, the results have been underwhelming. With a 31-37 record, Phoenix may have to make a big decision to avoid losing their franchise centerpiece.