PHOENIX – The Kevin Durant sage with the Phoenix Suns is over, but that hasn’t stopped the 15-time All-Star from talking about his time in the Valley. The 36-year-old appeared on Lebron James and Steve Nash’s podcast, “Mind the Game.” The former MVP discussed his career and the future, while throwing some critiques towards his teammates from last year for not playing around him and trying to get their own shots.
Jan 16, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) celebrates with the fans after beating the Sacramento Kings 119-117 at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Durant on what he needed from Suns teammates:
Durant was more than willingly to pass to teammates, but when they would dribble into a midrange shot, it would infuriate him. Durant and James discussed that in the modern NBA only a certain amount of players are allowed to consistently shoot midrange shots. Analytics have erased midrange jumpers from role players, with corner threes being the most valuable shot in the league.
Mar 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts alongside head coach Mike Budenholzer against the Milwaukee Bucks at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Suns had a major problem of not defining roles amongst their personnel. The roster was filled with talented shooters and offensive weapons, but none of it worked out with no cohesion. Durant was clearly frustrated with the decision-making from his teammates and likely helped with his final decision to be traded.
Former Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant takes harsh shots at NBA fans online
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
