The Phoenix Suns are facing significant internal challenges, further exacerbated by their recent 107-96 defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers. On Sunday night, the spotlight was firmly on star player Kevin Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer as their escalating tensions became apparent.
Amid a timeout in the first quarter, Durant showcased his frustration, engaging in a heated exchange with Budenholzer. The coach reciprocated with intensity, heightening speculation of a potential rift within the team. While the precise reasons behind their altercation remain unclear, the visible discord has sparked rumors of a divided locker room.
This confrontation is not an isolated incident; earlier in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Budenholzer attempted to shake Durant’s hand, only for Durant to retract his arm and briefly respond. These recurring interactions indicate a growing disconnect between the two figures.
Kevin Durant and Mike Budenholzer exchange words during the timeout.
(via @TSN_Sports)
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Durant isn’t the only member of the Suns believed to be experiencing friction with Budenholzer, as reports have suggested that Devin Booker has also had tense interactions with the head coach.
The Suns’ challenges, on and off the court, seem to be impacting team harmony. Despite the confrontation, Durant still managed to contribute significantly, ending the night with 21 points, nine rebounds, and two assists.
Mike Budenholzer Denies Any Strain with Kevin Durant
Following the earlier confrontation, both Budenholzer and Durant downplayed any existing tension. When probed about Durant’s on-court incident against the Lakers, the head coach responded similarly.
“He’s always pushing us to win. He’s pushing us to be better. Trying to figure out the spacing. Sometimes figuring out the defense. Are we putting two on the ball? And how we’re rotating. We have to figure it out; we have to be better,” Budenholzer remarked.
With their latest defeat, the Suns have fallen to a 31-37 record, leaving them at the eleventh spot in the Western Conference. Having lost six of their last ten games, the ongoing internal conflicts could jeopardize their chances for postseason play.
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