Kevin Durant, star of the Phoenix Suns, recently shared his ideal quintet of current players in a 2K game, where he surprisingly excluded NBA and Golden State Warriors superstar <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a>.



Durant has had the opportunity to play with several exceptional players throughout his career. However, his ideal quintet reflects his preference for players with outstanding offensive and defensive skills.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a>‘s decision to exclude Curry doesn’t stop there, as Kyrie Irving has also been ignored, generating surprise and debate among fans. Both players have been Durant’s teammates on different teams and are considered some of the best in the NBA.



During a live broadcast with Sauce Gardner, Durant revealed his selection of players to form his dream team. “I’ll probably go with Luka [Doncic] at that point. Luka, me, LeBron [James], [Joel] Embiid at my 5 because he can shoot the three better. You gotta go with somebody like Klay [Thompson].”



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Kevin Durant’s perfect starting 5: Luka Doncic Klay Thompson Kevin Durant LeBron James Joel Embiid (🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/boardroom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@boardroom</a> / h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ClutchPoints</a> ) <a href="https://t.co/cb6UwbcGyf">pic.twitter.com/cb6UwbcGyf</a>— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1834570320541274602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h3>The Suns’ performance</h3>



The Suns, with Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal as stars, had a disappointing season in 2023. The team barely managed to qualify for the playoffs and was eliminated in the first round.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-after-extending-stephen-curry-warriors-doubtful-on-another-stars-contract"></div>


The lack of chemistry between the three players and injuries were factors that affected the Suns’ performance. However, the team hopes to improve in the coming season and compete for the championship.



<h3>Durant’s motivation</h3>



Kevin Durant has used his experience at the Olympics as motivation for the upcoming season. Playing alongside Stephen Curry and LeBron James has reminded him of his ability to compete at the highest level.



The Suns hope Durant can translate that motivation to the court and lead the team to success. With a talented roster and an experienced coach, the Suns have the tools to compete for the title.

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Kevin Durant surprisingly snubs Warriors' Stephen Curry in a stunning starting five revelation - Bolavip US

miniaturas

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a> continued to add to his Olympic legacy by helping Team USA win the gold medal at Paris 2024. But while the Phoenix Suns star proved he still has enough lot left in the tank, fans are wondering for how long we’ll see him playing at a high level in the NBA.



As talented as he is, one cannot overlook the fact that KD is not getting any younger. He’ll turn 36 in September, so chances are this has been his last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/olympics">Olympics</a> appearance.



And it feels like we’re seeing his last years in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> as well. In fact, the former Brooklyn Nets star recently admitted he’s already preparing for the day he’ll call it a career.



“As I get older in the league and the league is getting younger, I tend to think about retirement more,” Durant said in an interview on TV One Rising Fame, via Duane Rankin of AZ Central.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240812_BUS_157652_kevin-durant-2-1024x576_a19eaa8c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant #7 of Team United States looks on during a Men&apos;s basketball group phase-group C game between the United States and Puerto Rico." class="wp-image-154180" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/kevin-durant-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/kevin-durant-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/kevin-durant-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/kevin-durant-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/kevin-durant-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant #7 of Team United States looks on during a Men’s basketball group phase-group C game between the United States and Puerto Rico.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kevin Durant not sure about what to do after retirement</h2>



Durant may feel retirement is getting closer, yet he doesn’t know what will happen next. He knows he would like to do something related to basketball, but in the meantime, the Suns star is enjoying the moment.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/olympics/lebron-james-makes-huge-statement-about-kevin-durant-stephen-curry-after-olympic-success"></div>


“I honestly don’t know what I’ll do [after retirement]. I have a lot of different interests; I definitely want to stay in on the game. … But I truly want to hang out and see what happens,” Durant said, via ClutchPoints. “… This is gonna be a huge, huge transition. Been at this since I was eight. So I just want to have the time and space and step out of that matrix and figure out who I am as an individual and then step into something and be ready for it.”



After a strong performance with Team USA at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Durant will be looking to keep up with that level when he returns to action with Phoenix as the Suns left a lot to be desired last season.

NBA News: Kevin Durant makes big admission about retirement after Paris 2024 Olympics

NBA News: Kevin Durant makes big admission about retirement after Paris 2024 Olympics - Bolavip US

In mid-2021, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> were on the brink of winning their first NBA championship in franchise history. However, the Milwaukee Bucks managed to turn the series around and snatch the title from the Suns.



In pursuit of that elusive championship ring, the franchise made a major move last year by acquiring the seasoned <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a>. Despite a strong season alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, the team fell short of their ultimate goal.



While KD is currently competing with Team USA in the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Suns’ management is focused on keeping their star player. They are planning to extend his contract for one more year with a $59.7 million deal.



In an interview with The Arizona Republic, Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein stated: “The most important thing is Kevin loves being here, and we love having Kevin here.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240804_BUS_154541_Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1-1024x576_697f112d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant Phoenix Suns" class="wp-image-154593" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns celebrates making a three-point basket during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on March 11, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



“He’s focused on the Olympics, but we’re always having dialogue. The relationship is what matters the most. The relationship is in a great spot. I talk to (Durant’s agent) Rich Kleiman, who works with Kevin, all the time. Conversations are great not just on extension stuff, but on all things that have been going on.”


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-news-carmelo-anthonys-son-opens-up-about-bronny-james-being-drafted-by-the-lakers"></div>


<h2>Durant’s current situation at Suns</h2>



Durant is currently competing with his national team in the Olympics, but his agent and Suns management are actively negotiating a renewal agreement. Durant became eligible to sign the extension on July 12th and has until October 21st to finalize it. His current four-year, $194 million contract is set to end after the 2025-26 season.



<h2>Phoenix Suns and the upcoming season</h2>



Last season, Durant averaged 28.5 points per game on 52.9 percent shooting. However, over the final 17 games, he averaged 22.4 points per game on 50 percent shooting. Nonetheless, fatigue from the heavy minutes played led to a noticeable drop in his performance during the latter part of the season.



For this season, Mike Budenholzer will take charge of the team and aims to position KD in a role where he can best complement Devin Booker, rather than overlap with him. Last year, this was one of the major factors contributing to Durant not shining as brightly as anticipated.



Undoubtedly, the championship will be the ultimate goal for this franchise, something they have never achieved in their history despite coming close three times. To reach that goal, they will need to face strong teams in the Western Conference throughout the season, ultimately aiming for a grand final against the best contender from the East.

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NBA Rumors: Kevin Durant’s contract talks with Suns get significant update - Bolavip US

The NBA won’t be back until late October, which is why the rumor mill is already in full swing. It’s a moment of the year that may entertain fans, but it may not sit well with most players. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> star Kevin Durant, for instance, is not a fan of the gossip.



Especially when those conversations suggest he’ll be on the move. In an interview with Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports, KD broke the silence on the rumors linking him with a potential move this offseason.



“You could just press the ‘KD want to leave’ button anytime you want some attention. Yes, it’s a button. What else is gonna get people going around this time? Besides, ‘Oh, the journeyman is leaving again.’ That story is always gonna hit. It’s hard not to hear what they got to say about you. Because especially when you could just make up lies and everybody gonna believe you. So for somebody to say, ‘Phoenix wants to get out of the KD (business),’ I’m sitting here like, where is this coming from?,” Durant said.



The 35-year-old has been linked with a potential departure from Phoenix as the Suns left much to be desired in the 2024 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> playoffs, but it looks like he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. In fact, KD called out the media for the speculation about his future.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240707_BUS_142308_Kevin-Durant-1-1024x576_42bd79b8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant" class="wp-image-106397" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant playing for the Phoenix Suns.</figcaption></figure>



“It bothers me that people lie like that and that the audience eats up the headline,” Durant added. “I get sad when people buy into lies and just make up —-. It’s bigger than ball at that point for me. I can’t control that. I feel for people. It’s a bad practice to have when you just believe anything, for one. Just believe what you see on TV. And then it’s another bad habit when you’re just lying.”


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<h2>Kevin Durant has yet to succeed with Suns</h2>



The Suns made a big move to get <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Durant</a> halfway through the 2022-23 NBA season, aiming to challenge for a championship immediately. That season, Phoenix lost in six games to eventual champions Denver Nuggets in the Conference Semifinals.



Team owner Mat Ishbia went even further in the summer of 2023, going all in to pair KD and Devin Booker with Bradley Beal. It didn’t pay off though, with the Suns getting swept by the Timberwolves in the first round.



Even so, it’s safe to say it’s still a bit soon for the Suns to give up on this roster, which is why it makes sense Durant stays at least for another year. We’ll have to wait and see how it goes.

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The Houston Rockets were one of the biggest surprises at the end of last season when an 11-game winning streak almost put them in position to eliminate the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> from the play-in tournament. Now, they’re ready to take the next step by pursuing Kevin Durant.



Just hours before the 2024 Draft, Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Rockets are collecting as many picks as possible to go all-in for the star. “Brooklyn has a deal with Houston to return the Nets’ 2026 first-round pick for a 2027 Phoenix Suns first-round pick, sources tell ESPN. Rockets also acquire 2025 right to swap Houston/OKC first for 2025 Suns first-round pick.”



So, when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> world acknowledges the Western Conference is absolutely loaded with teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a>, the Minnesota Timberwolves or the Mavericks, Houston won’t sit and watch.



“Most importantly in the deal, per sources: Houston relinquishes the right to swap a Houston/OKC first-round pick for Brooklyn’s 2025 first-round pick. The Nets control their own pick as they go into a full rebuild, especially important in talented 2025 draft.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240626_BUS_137104_kevindurant-1024x576_7c02ada0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-125476" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/kevindurant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/kevindurant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/kevindurant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/kevindurant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/kevindurant.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant could play for the Houston Rockets (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What will be the next team of Kevin Durant?</h2>



Kevin Durant is currently under contract with the Phoenix Suns, but, last season was a disaster when a new Big Three experiment failed playing alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. That’s why Wojnarowski points out at Houston as a fresh start.







“The implications of the Rockets landing the Suns’ picks? Houston wants to trade for Kevin Durant and that becomes far easier if they can return the Suns’ picks that they gave up in the Durant deal to the Nets. Suns have said they’re keeping Durant for now, but that could change next season. But now, Houston has the picks to make the Suns whole again.”


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/report-donovan-mitchell-makes-final-decision-about-playing-with-lebron-james-and-lakers"></div>


Although the information states that the Suns aren’t ready to break their core group, all these picks put the Rockets as front-runners if Phoenix change their mind. It’s not a wild scenario at all to bring a superstar to Space City. 



“Rockets possess a pick swap with Suns in 2025, Suns’ pick in 2027 and could end up with the Suns’ pick in 2029 based on contingencies. If the Suns are ever faced with breaking up team, Houston’s also in prime position to pursue a younger Devin Booker. For now, Phoenix is trying to win.”


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="667c24a3b28786ca9d223096" data-title="What will be the next team of Kevin Durant?" data-options="3"></div>

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bronny-james">Bronny James</a> is one of the biggest names to watch ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft. While this is mostly because we’re talking about LeBron James‘ eldest son, it seems that we could see his name high on the draft order.



Even though the USC product is widely expected to be a second-round pick at best, Bill Simmons said on his podcast that the player’s camp will encourage teams to select him sooner. And he believes the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> will do that in the first round.



“I think Bronny is going to go in the first round because I think that’s going to be encouraged,” Simmons said. “Encouraged in a way like, ‘If this happens, then this will happen.’ There’s a lot of Phoenix buzz right now; I’m just going to say it. There is and I don’t know if it’s real or not.”



<h2>Bronny has already worked out for Suns</h2>



The Suns are one of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> teams Bronny has worked out for, along with the Los Angeles Lakers. These two teams seem to be in pole position to select LeBron’s oldest son, in what could be an attempt to also get The King.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240619_BUS_134507_Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1-1024x576_ba96a9e6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shouts to his son, Bronny James #6 of the USC Trojans, during Bronny&apos;s game against the California Golden Bears at Haas Pavilion on February 07, 2024 in Berkeley, California." class="wp-image-128493" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Bronny-and-LeBron-James-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shouts to his son, Bronny James #6 of the USC Trojans, during Bronny’s game against the California Golden Bears at Haas Pavilion on February 07, 2024 in Berkeley, California.</figcaption></figure>



“But they seem really confident that he is getting drafted in the first round. And if you’re Mat Ishbia and the draft sucks, and it’s like let’s get Bronny, and they’re telling us that if we take Bronny, there’s a chance that we can get LeBron too, you got to think about it,” Simmons said.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-lebron-james-has-made-a-decision-on-playing-with-bronny-james"></div>


Word on the street is that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron</a> will not make a decision based on Bronny’s next team, but the connection is still giving a lot to talk about in the days leading to the 2024 NBA Draft.







<h2>3 more NBA teams interested in Bronny James ahead of 2024 NBA Draft</h2>



The Suns and Lakers could face competition for Bronny, though. Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul, who represents both LeBron and his oldest son, suggested there are three other teams that are also interested in the young guard.



“There are other teams that love Bronny. For example, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, Toronto Raptors. If it’s not the Lakers, it will be someone else,” Paul told Jonathan Givony of ESPN. “Minnesota would love to get Bronny in, but I don’t know who their owner is going to be. [Mavs GM] Nico Harrison is like an uncle to Bronny. If the Lakers don’t take him at 55, Dallas would take him at 58 and give him a guaranteed deal. Masai [Ujiri, Raptors president], loves him. They could take him without even seeing him at 31. Workouts aren’t everything for these teams.”

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/darvin-ham">Darvin Ham</a> may have been fired by the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, but it looks like his stock is still high enough to get him other job opportunities in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a>. In fact, the Phoenix Suns were reportedly open to having Ham on board.



According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Mike Budenholzer tried to add the former Lakers’ head coach to his staff ahead of his first season in charge of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Suns</a>, but Ham declined the offer:



“League sources say Budenholzer made a run at trying to convince Darvin Ham to join his staff in Phoenix, but Ham — fired as Lakers coach on May 3 — is said to have understandably passed after two exacting seasons in Lakerland. The Suns responded by asking David Fizdale, from Vogel’s staff, to stay on as an assistant coach on Budenholzer’s new staff after initially offering him a front office role.”



This would’ve seen Ham work with the likes of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a> and Devin Booker only a few months after running a roster led by LeBron James. However, we’ll have to wait a bit longer to see what’s next for the 50-year-old.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240603_BUS_129960_Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets-1024x576_8be45054.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Head coach Darvin Ham of the Los Angeles Lakers react reacts as his team plays the Denver Nuggets in the fourth quarter during game two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 22, 2024 in Denver, Colorado." class="wp-image-123106" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/Head-coach-Darvin-Ham-of-the-Los-Angeles-Lakers-react-reacts-as-his-team-plays-the-Denver-Nuggets.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Darvin Ham of the Los Angeles Lakers react reacts as his team plays the Denver Nuggets in the fourth quarter during game two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 22, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>How Ham has fared since parting with Budenholzer</h2>



Budenholzer took Ham under his wing for years, with the Saginaw native serving as an assistant for Mike between 2013 and 2018 with the Atlanta Hawks and also with the Milwaukee Bucks from 2018 to 2022.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/lakers-coaching-history-how-many-coaches-has-lebron-james-had-in-la"></div>


While their last stint together resulted in an NBA championship in 2021, Ham decided to take on a new challenge with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a> in 2022. His rookie year as head coach resulted in a Conference Finals sweep at the hands of the Nuggets, who also took down the Lakers in 2024, but this time it was in the first round of the playoffs.



Despite the deep playoff run in 2023, the Lakers struggled for consistency in two years on Ham’s watch, which is why the franchise is now looking for a change with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>‘ future uncertain. In the end, Ham’s first experience as a head coach resulted in a 90-74 record across two seasons.



<h2>Ham reportedly talked with Warriors </h2>



Apart from being given the chance to coach Durant, Ham could’ve also gone <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-former-coach-of-lebron-james-could-work-with-stephen-curry">from working with LeBron to coaching Stephen Curry</a>. According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, the Golden State Warriors held conversations with Ham over an assistant role, though without much progress:



“The Warriors had some conversation with former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham in recent weeks, per league sources. That isn’t expected to materialize. But it is a signal of the Warriors’ desire to add a big-name assistant, and indications are they are in search of either a former head coach or former player to fill the role. If Atkinson leaves, they may add two assistant coaches. It remains a fluid time across the league in the coaching world.“


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/lakers-fire-head-coach-darvin-ham-what-was-his-contract-in-los-angeles"></div>


These recent rumors linking Ham with positions at NBA teams featuring other superstars suggest the former Lakers HC should be a name to watch this summer.

LeBron James, Lakers almost see familiar face join Kevin Durant, Suns

Darvin Ham: From LeBron James' Lakers to Kevin Durant's Suns? - Bolavip US

NBA Rumors: Darvin Ham could've gone from LeBron James' Lakers to Kevin Durant's Suns

With the 2024 NBA Draft drawing nearer, many wonder where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bronny-james">Bronny James</a> will end up as he’s planning to turn pro after a college stint with USC Trojans. And it looks like the elder son of LeBron James already has two favorite destinations.



According to NBA Insider Shams Charania of The Athletic, the 19-year-old guard has workout invites from multiple organizations, but he only intends to visit the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and Phoenix Suns.



“Bronny James has over 10 workout invites during the pre-draft process, but I’m told he’s only gonna visit a couple of those and that’s gonna include the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns,” Shams said on the latest episode of FanDuel TV’s ‘Run It Back.’



<h2>Bronny James, Rich Paul warning NBA GMs on LeBron speculation </h2>



While Bronny is not seen as one of the top prospects of this year’s class, his father’s legacy in the NBA makes the guard a name to watch. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-son-bronny-sends-message-to-nba-general-managers-ahead-of-2024-draft">Bronny expects GMs to look at his potential</a> and not at the possibility of getting his father, but it’s hard not to make the connection.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240528_BUS_128700_Bronny-James-1024x576_ec72c169.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bronny James college" class="wp-image-117375" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Bronny-James-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Bronny-James-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Bronny-James-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Bronny-James-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Bronny-James.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Bronny James playing for USC</figcaption></figure>



However, KLUTCH Sports Group CEO Rich Paul, who represents both LeBron and Bronny, has reportedly been warning teams around the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> that drafting Bronny won’t mean they’ll get his father as well.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/lebron-james-son-bronny-sends-message-to-nba-general-managers-ahead-of-2024-draft"></div>


At 39, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">James</a> has a big decision to make as he has until June 29 to opt into or decline a $51.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season. So while we wonder where his son will land, there’s also uncertainty on what uniform The King will be donning next season.

LeBron James' son Bronny turns down multiple teams, eyes only two franchises ahead of 2024 NBA Draft

LeBron James' son Bronny eyes only two NBA teams ahead of 2024 Draft - Bolavip US

LeBron James' son Bronny to work out for only two teams

NBA Rumors: LeBron James' son Bronny interested in only two teams ahead of 2024 Draft

<ul><li>Kevin Durant isn’t happy in Phoenix, says Stephen A. Smith.</li><li>He doesn’t talk to his teammates.</li><li>Durant spent more than a month without talking to his coach.</li></ul>



<h2>Is Kevin Durant Unhappy In Phoenix?</h2>



Once again, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kevin Durant </a>was a centerpiece in one of the most disappointing — if not the most disappointing — teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phoenix Suns </a>went home in the first round, and they couldn’t even win a single playoff game.



The roster is flawed and poorly constructed. They need an athletic big man and a true floor general, and they don’t have the assets or financial flexibility to get either in the offseason.



To make things even worse, it seems like their best player isn’t happy there, either. Recently, ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith revealed that Durant doesn’t even talk to his teammates.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith: ‘Kevin Durant Is A Problem In Phoenix’</h2>



“It is a problem,” Smith said. “We don’t see it ’cause the stats are there. Him and (Devin) Booker average 27 points a game and what have you, but they say Kevin Durant is never happy. They say he went more than a month without even talking to the head coach (Frank Vogel). They say he doesn’t look happy there. All he wants to do is play when the game starts and tip-off time arrives, but when it comes to ingratiating yourself with your teammates and getting along with everybody and stuff like that, he just lives in his own world.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240514_BUS_126130_Kevin-Durant-1024x576_43390270.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant" class="wp-image-105946" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The Suns Could Get Tired Of Him</h2>



The controversial pundit added that Durant hasn’t purposely done anything to hurt the locker room. Nonetheless, his lack of vocal leadership and reluctance to mesh with his teammates has worn thin in the desert:



“And you get tired of it because when you don’t want to talk and you don’t want to answer questions, you don’t want to lead in a very visible way, that forces other people to have to step up and take on a level of culpability that they don’t want to stomach,” Smith added.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-potential-destinations-for-kevin-durant"></div>






At the end of the day, that’s just his personality, and he shouldn’t be held accountable for that. If anything, the Suns knew what they were getting into, and they gladly agreed to do it. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6643939b383302a78ab6f581" data-title="Should the Suns trade Durant?" data-options="2"></div>

Stephen A. Smith reveals Kevin Durant is the Phoenix Suns' problem

Anthony Edwards gets real on beating Kevin Durant

Phoenix Suns\&#039; Kevin Durant wasn\&#039;t happy with Frank Vogel

NBA: Stephen A. Smith reveals Kevin Durant's problem with the Suns - Bolavip US

Kevin Durant is the Suns' problem, says insider

Stephen A. Smith reveals Kevin Durant's problem with the Suns

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> were one of the biggest disappointments in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> during the 2023-2024 season. They were supposed to be a championship caliber roster with players like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a>, Devin Booker and the arrival of Bradley Beal.



However, the Suns finished in sixth place of the Western Conference following a 49-33 record and were swept in the playoffs by Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves. 



As a consequence, Frank Vogel was fired as head coach only one year after replacing Monty Williams. Even with that ring won for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>, it wasn’t enough to boost a group of stars in Phoenix.



Now, considering how crowded is the West, the Suns had to make a decisive mode trying to convince Kevin Durant that they’re his best choice to hoist another trophy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240511_BUS_125465_kevindurant-1024x576_59c6cc7d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-92092" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/kevindurant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/kevindurant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/kevindurant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/kevindurant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/kevindurant.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant just got massive help from the Phoenix Suns (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Who will be the next head coach of the Phoenix Suns?</h2>



Mike Budenholzer is the new head coach of the Phoenix Suns. The man who led Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks to a championship will sign a five-year contract to repeat the formula with Kevin Durant, Booker and Beal.







“I am honored to be named head coach of the Phoenix Suns, the team I grew up watching. I’m grateful to have a talented roster of players who are ready to compete and play a style of basketball that will bring out the best in all of them and bring them together as we compete for championships.”


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/magic-johnson-takes-a-big-shot-at-lebron-james-and-los-angeles-lakers"></div>


<h2>Will Kevin Durant leave the Phoenix Suns?</h2>



The arrival of a big name like Mike Bundeholzer seems to be a clear sign that the Phoenix Suns are providing Kevin Durant all the pieces he needs to win another championship. The star has two years left on his contract. This was the message from team’s owner, Mat Ishbia.



“We’re excited to name Mike as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns and bring him back to his home state of Arizona. Mike has proven himself to be among the most successful head coaches in the NBA. He is the right leader to take us to the next level and reach our championship goals.”

Phoenix Suns sign extraordinary head coach to replace Frank Vogel

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Phoenix Suns sign one of the best NBA head coaches to help Kevin Durant

The Pho<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enix Suns</a> are in the worst possible position in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. Not only were they swept in the first round, but they don’t have a draft pick from 2025 to 2030, and their salary cap situation is complicated, to say the least.



Bradley Beal has a no-trade clause, and with his history of injuries, no one would take him and his $150+ million over the next three years. Kevin Durant is aging, and while he stayed healthy this season, his trade value might not be as high as it once was.



That leaves <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/devin-booker" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devin Booker</a> as the only potential savior. As tough as it might seem, trading him to replenish their draft capital and clear cap space could be their only choice right now.



<h2>The Knicks’ Interest In Booker Is Real</h2>



Recently, ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith stirred the pot by claiming that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-suns-star-devin-booker-wants-to-play-in-another-city" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Booker wanted to be a New York Knick</a>. And even though <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-suns-star-devin-bookers-camp-reacts-to-new-york-rumors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Booker’s camp was quick to dismiss those rumors</a>, Suns insider Gerald Bourguet revealed the Knicks have been keeping tabs on him for years now:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240501_BUS_123028_Devin-Booker-1-1024x572_e84527e9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-79334" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Devin Booker</figcaption></figure>



“According to that source, the Knicks have been interested in Booker dating back to Leon Rose’s instatement as team president back in 2020,” Bourguet reported. “Rose, a former CAA player agent prior to being hired by New York, once served as Booker’s representation, and other Knicks personnel with connections to the 27-year-old Suns star recently put out feelers about his potential interest in coming to New York.”



The Knicks have a flurry of first-round picks to trade, and they’re expected to make a run at a big name in the offseason, whether it’s Booker, Donovan Mitchell, or someone else.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-potential-destinations-for-kevin-durant"></div>








Whether Booker wants to be a Knick or not might not be relevant here. Mat Ishbia’s hands-on approach may have set the Suns back half a decade, and he might have to make a tough decision if he wants to revert this situation.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="663262b8fe49376328895b2e" data-title="Should the Suns trade Booker?" data-options="2"></div>

The Knicks' interest in Suns' Devin Booker is real

NBA Rumors: Knicks could trade for Suns' Devin Booker - Bolavip US

The 'Devin Booker to Knicks' rumors are real

NBA Rumors: Knicks could trade for Suns' Devin Booker

With the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> suffering an early playoff elimination at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, the team’s possible plans are making headlines. While the Kevin Durant rumors may make sense, many were shocked to see even Devin Booker’s future was put into question.



On Monday, Stephen A. Smith suggested on ESPN‘s “First Take” that Booker would like to play in New York. Smith didn’t mention whether the 27-year-old was interested in the Knicks or Nets, but his comments still made noise.



In fact, Booker’s camp reportedly addressed this situation. According to Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports, they denied these rumors: “A source from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/devin-booker">Devin Booker</a>’s camp who’s intimately familiar with the situation told PHNX Sports that these rumors are unequivocally false.”



Bourguet added that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks">Knicks</a> do want Booker on their team, but the interest is not mutual. Besides, the player’s camp was reportedly “adamant” about setting the record straight on this rumor, labeled as “unfounded.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240430_BUS_122855_Devin-Booker-1024x576_bb1dbb8c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Devin Booker in action for the Phoenix Suns" class="wp-image-73297" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/Devin-Booker.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Devin Booker in action for the Phoenix Suns.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What Smith said about Booker’s future</h2>



In his ESPN show, Smith said that Booker’s alleged interest in “New York” was something he heard from “the NBA circles” but warned that he never talked about it with the player.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-potential-destinations-for-kevin-durant"></div>


“From what I’m being told, I don’t know if it will ever happen, Devin Booker wants to be in New York,” Smith said, via ClutchPoints. “That’s what I’m being told. That’s what I’m being told. Now, he might deny it. I haven’t spoken to him. I’m just telling you the scuttlebutt in the NBA circles is that brother wanna be in New York. So if you’re Phoenix, you got at least two people, probably three who are all getting paid about $150 million combined, don’t want to be there.”



<h2>Booker wants a ring, but doesn’t look desperate</h2>



Booker, who turns 28 in October, is under contract with the Suns through the 2027-28 season on a deal that sees his salary increase annually. Phoenix has been the only team in Booker’s career since he entered the league in 2015.



He came close to tasting the ultimate glory in 2021, when the team lost to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> Finals. The Suns haven’t had a deep playoff run since then, but Booker still dreams of winning a ring.



“I want to win (a championship),” Booker said. “It’s a tough league. … I think over time, experience is the best teacher. The more that you can spend time together, feel this hurt together and go through it together, the better off you are in the future.”

Devin Booker breaks the silence on rumors worrying Suns fans

Devin Booker's camp reacts to Suns star being linked with New York - Bolavip US

NBA Rumors: Suns star Devin Booker's camp reacts to New York rumors

With the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> getting swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2024 NBA playoffs, Devin Booker‘s future now looks up in the air. According to Stephen A. Smith, the 27-year-old wants to play in New York.



“From what I’m being told, I don’t know if it will ever happen, Devin Booker wants to be in New York,” Smith said on ESPN, via ClutchPoints. “That’s what I’m being told. That’s what I’m being told. Now, he might deny it. I haven’t spoken to him. I’m just telling you the scuttlebutt in the NBA circles is that brother wanna be in New York. So if you’re Phoenix, you got at least two people, probably three who are all getting paid about $150 million combined, don’t want to be there.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/devin-booker">Booker</a>‘s contract with the Suns doesn’t expire until 2028, with his salary set to increase each year for the remainder of the deal. Therefore, Phoenix will likely ask for a king’s ransom to let him go.



Smith is a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks">Knicks</a> fan, so it would make sense if one prefers to take this with a grain of salt. The Nets are also in the New York area, but their current situation may not be so attractive for a star seeking a first ring.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240429_BUS_122699_Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker-1024x576_78f20804.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant and Devin Booker" class="wp-image-94112" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Kevin-Durant-and-Devin-Booker.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant and Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Booker insists he wants to win a ring</h2>



Following the Suns’ fourth loss to the Timberwolves on Sunday, Booker made it clear his goal remains to win an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> championship for the first time. He came close in 2021, when the Suns lost to the Milwaukee Bucks in the Finals.


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“I want to win (a championship),” Booker said. “It’s a tough league. At the end of all this, there’s gonna be one winner, and everybody that doesn’t win is gonna go into somewhat of a panic mode and feel like they have to make changes… I think over time, experience is the best teacher. The more that you can spend time together, feel this hurt together and go through it together, the better off you are in the future.”



It’s interesting what Booker said about experience. Things haven’t gone to plan for Phoenix in the last few years, but the former first-rounder seems to understand that succeeding can take time. We’ll have to wait and see if he continues to view the Suns as his best chance to win a coveted first ring.

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Every now and then, we see a young player take the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> by storm. Some players wait for their turn to dominate, while others take the torch off of other players’ hands without asking.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-edwards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Edwards</a> is definitely that kind of player. The young <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/minnesota%C2%A0timberwolves" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> star went to Kevin Durant’s house and put the league on notice by sweeping him and the star-studded Phoenix Suns.



Edwards has repeatedly stated that Durant was his favorite player going up. That’s why he feels like he’s on top of the world right now, and the league is definitely in trouble.



<h2>Anthony Edwards Reacts To Beating The Suns</h2>



“Man, it felt great,” Edwards said on the court after the game. “I got the utmost respect for KD. He comes in and competes every night. I watched every last one of his games since I been about 5. I love that guy and I am excited to play with him this summer, talk a little trash, and let him know I sent him home.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240429_BUS_122568_Anthony-Edwards-1024x572_19c74f0d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-51799" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/Anthony-Edwards-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/Anthony-Edwards-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/Anthony-Edwards-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/Anthony-Edwards.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Anthony Edwards</figcaption></figure>



Edwards was humbled and thankful for getting the opportunity to eliminate his favorite player of all time. Still, he acknowledged it was a team effort and praised him for the way he played:



“It’s my favorite player of all time,” Edwards said in his post-game presser. “It’s the best feeling in the world to send him home or whatever you want to call it. I don’t even think I outplayed him, he played great throughout the whole series but my team outplayed his.”



<h2>Durant Tips His Hat To Edwards</h2>



As expected, Durant had no hard feelings or bad words about Edwards, not even after his antics and trash-talking throughout the series. As a matter of fact, he even claimed he’s his favorite player to watch right now:



“So impressed with him,” Durant said. “[He’s my] My favorite player to watch. Just grown so much since he came into the league. He’s 22. His love for the game, he shines bright, and that’s one of the reasons I like him the most, it’s because he loves basketball. He’s grateful to be in this position; he’s taken advantage of every opportunity he’s got.”


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Edwards is blossoming as a two-way superstar right before our eyes. The sky is the limit for him, and even if the Timberwolves aren’t the favorites to go the distance this season, he’s special enough to lead them all the way.


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Things didn’t work out well for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kevin Durant</a> and the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Phoenix Suns</a>. They fell short in the playoffs on his first try, and he couldn’t even win a single postseason game in his first full season with the organization.



The Suns don’t have a first-round draft pick until 2030, and they’re hard against the salary cap. Under the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>‘s new CBA, they’ll face hefty penalties and won’t be able to sign players unless they’re on veteran minimum contracts.



Bradley Beal has a no-trade clause, and Devin Booker is the youngest of their star trio, not to mention he’s a homegrown talent. That makes Durant the odd man out in their future, and he’s reportedly <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/phoenix-suns-kevin-durant-wasnt-happy-with-frank-vogel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not comfortable with his co-stars</a>.



<h2>NBA Trade Rumors: Potential Teams For Kevin Durant</h2>



That’s why it wouldn’t be crazy to see Durant getting traded again. With that in mind, we take a look at the three teams that could make sense and legitimately make a run for him.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240429_BUS_122537_Kevin-Durant-1024x576_49ad7372.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kevin Durant" class="wp-image-105946" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Kevin-Durant.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant</figcaption></figure>



<h2>3. Golden State Warriors</h2>



Some believe Durant stained his legacy when he joined the Golden State Warriors. So, now that that ship has sailed, why not do it again? At the end of the day, it always felt like they could’ve done so much more if they had stayed together.



The years have gone by, but Stephen Curry continues to be the best point guard in the game, and he’s still a championship-caliber player. They know how to play together, and the Suns could get Chris Paul’s expiring contract again, as well as some young players and draft capital to replenish their arks.



<h2>2. New York Knicks</h2>



The New York Knicks have always been tied to the best players in the league but to no avail. However, with Jalen Brunson blossoming like a superstar, they could be a legitimate NBA Finals candidate and challenge the Boston Celtics.



The Knicks were rumored to be the frontrunners to land Durant when he joined the Brooklyn Nets. He <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/kevin-durant-destroys-the-knicks-with-shocking-confession-20240221-BUS-106463.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">claimed that the Knicks weren’t cool</a> back then, but they’re definitely the coolest team in town now. Also, they have a plethora of draft picks to trade.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240429_BUS_122537_kevin-durant-1-1024x572_42dc36e0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="Kevin Durant Warriors" class="wp-image-39757" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/kevin-durant-1-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/kevin-durant-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/kevin-durant-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/kevin-durant-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Durant with the Golden State Warriors</figcaption></figure>



<h2>1. Oklahoma City Thunder</h2>



There would be no better redemption arc for Durant than going back to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He’s one of the greatest players in franchise history, and the fans would definitely forgive him after all these years if he goes full circle.







The Thunder are the youngest No. 1 seed ever, and they should be great for years to come. Still, adding Durant would propel their championship chances even further, all while they keep stacking up talent and getting the next generation ready to take over. Nobody has more draft picks than them, so it makes sense.


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