Pointing out the Phoenix Suns’ struggles in Kevin Durant’s absence, NBA experts took shots at Devin Booker’s sinking stats
Phoenix Sun’s in shambles in Kevin Durant’s Absence
Once compared to the likes of Kobe Bryant, Devin Booker seemingly isn’t the same player anymore. He has failed to carry his team to the finish line without the help of Kevin Durant. The Phoenix Suns are 11-2 when Kevin Durant is in the game and 1-9 when he is sidelined due to injury. Suns currently stand at 12-11 heading into their next matchup versus the Utah Jazz this Friday.
Considering how Devin Booker’s trajectory has declined in recent years, analyst Bobby Marks and former NBA champ turned commentator Kendrick Perkins voiced their concerns about the dip in Booker’s production this season.
Devin Booker is an All-NBA type of player, but Devin Booker this year is not playing like an All-NBA player. He is shooting 43% from the field, down from 49% last year, without Kevin Durant, this team is a lottery team. … They’re so reliant on ‘KD’ and if they have another Durant injury somewhere around the line, that is gonna be a huge, huge blow.
Bobby Marks said on NBA Today
Kendrick Perkins also gave his two cents, noting that despite a minor dip in Booker’s stats, including shooting percentage, assists, and rebounds, he is still unclear about the possible rationale behind it.
Perplexed by Devin Booker’s subpar performance, Perkins remarked that one would think Booker would be in the same conversation as “Anthony Edwards” or “Donovan Mitchell.” However, at the moment, he is putting a few players ahead of Booker.
Suns bounce back with Kevin Durant’s return
After missing three games due to an ankle injury, Kevin Durant made a victorious return to the win column with a 134-126 victory over the Utah Jazz. Not only did KD help break the Suns’ three game losing streak, but he also went ballistic from the field line, which reignited Devin Booker as well. This duo was balls out hooping tonight.
Durant scored 30 points, dished out eight assists, grabbed three rebounds along with one steal and one block. Devin Booker also had an amazing night delivering 34 points while matching Durant’s eight assists and adding two rebounds.
The duo combined for 64 points accounting for almost half of the team’s total score. This synergy, however, emphasized the same point made earlier by experts like Bobby Marks and Kendrick Perkins: the Suns are overly reliant on Durant. Kd’s ability to lead offence and create open shots for him and his teammates was the X-factor that tilted this game in Phoenix Suns favor.
Phoenix’s success hinges heavily on Durant staying healthy. For now, the Suns will gladly take this win as a step forward, but the questions surrounding their depth and durability in Durant’s absence remains.