The Phoenix Suns entered the 2024–25 campaign determined to chase an elusive NBA championship with the star trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.

But after a disappointing 36-46 record and missing out on playoff contention, the franchise decided to overhaul its core—trading Durant to the Rockets and releasing Beal.

The plan for star synergy had failed to translate on the court, and managerial changes followed, with Jordan Ott named head coach and Brian Gregory taking over as general manager. 

Durant’s Experience: Underused But Engaged

Vasa Micic, who joined the Suns at the trade deadline, shed light on Kevin Durant’s mindset in Phoenix. He revealed on the X&O’s Chat Podcast that Durant was “surprised at how little he was used” given his status and skillset, implying a disconnect between his potential impact and his role within the Suns’ system.

Micic described Durant as intelligent, analytical, and approachable, noting his basketball vision stretched beyond routine scoring or playmaking.

Although former coach Mike Budenholzer drew criticism for not maximizing Durant’s involvement, KD handled the trade rumors and turbulence with professionalism—posting elite statistics at age 36, just shy of All-NBA qualification due to missed games. 

Houston Offers New Opportunity for KD

Durant now turns the page, joining Ime Udoka’s Rockets, reuniting with a coach whose strategic acumen could maximize his on-court contributions. The move gives Durant a chance to reinvigorate his late-career legacy.

In Phoenix, he averaged 26.6 points, shot over 52% from the field and 43% from deep, adding 6 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game, illustrating he can still dominate despite reduced usage.

The professional approach Durant maintained during adversity bodes well for his next NBA chapter, where both team structure and coaching style could fully harness his basketball vision as Houston aims for playoff prominence.