ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith believes it’s time for Devin Booker to move on from Phoenix

Smith argued that Booker, not the Suns, may be the one in greater need of a split following another early playoff exit. He acknowledged that new leadership and new players have elevated Phoenix this season, but questioned the All-Star’s lack of urgency in critical moments.

“My brother, when are you going to start winning?” Smith questioned. “I mean, I like Devin Booker, not throwing any shade… We demand so much of everybody else. What about him? We don’t, I mean, he gets no shade thrown in his direction.”

Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reacts against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Much of the discussion stems from Booker’s performance in the team’s sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he averaged 21.3 points and shot 46.0% from the field. However, a deeper look at the series shows inconsistency — including a 16-point outing on 6-for-16 shooting in Game 2. He also scored just two points in the first half of Game 4.

The comments have only continued to fuel questions about Booker’s winning mentality when it matters most. Smith noted the franchise’s effort to move in a different direction, but said he doesn’t fault the organization for wanting to retain Booker as its cornerstone.

“At some point in time, I want to see a Devin Booker that’s literally clamoring and starving to win,” he said. “Like it hurts and it’s not good.”

“We demand so much of everybody else. What about [Devin Booker]? He gets no shade thrown in his direction.” —@stephenasmith

Should Devin Booker look to leave the Phoenix Suns? 👀 pic.twitter.com/D4VloylWMl

— First Take (@FirstTake) April 28, 2026

Still, his message is centered on urgency — being great now, not later. The Suns have struggled to regain the form that carried them to the 2021 NBA Finals, and fans have grown increasingly disheartened that even with stacked rosters, Phoenix hasn’t found that level again.

Fan reaction is one thing, but hearing it from a renowned analyst like Smith underscores how prominent this storyline has become in the desert. The face of the franchise is now being questioned — by fans and observers alike — over whether he should remain with the only team he has played for, where loyalty and what’s best competitively can clash.

Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) greets Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) after advancing in a four game sweep of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

“I think he’s the one that needs to be looking to leave and find himself in a winning situation,” Smith said.

The spotlight, once again, is on the Suns’ All-Star — not just how well he plays, but whether he can lead Phoenix to meaningful playoff success, or if he will have to find it elsewhere.