The Phoenix Suns are navigating a familiar challenge as Kevin Durant’s struggle with injuries resurfaces, this time sidelining him with a sprained left ankle. The injury, incurred during the Suns' 104-93 triumph over the San Antonio Spurs, poses a significant hurdle as the team gears up to face a demanding lineup of opponents including the New Orleans Pelicans, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic.
Durant's current absence is anticipated to last at least a week, placing the Suns in a delicate situation. The hope is that he will be ready to return in time for the showdown against the Utah Jazz. This season, Durant has already demonstrated his pivotal role in the team with an exceptional record of 11-2 during the games he played. Averaging 25.8 points per game, Durant has also contributed with an impressive 65.2% true shooting percentage, along with 6.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game.
Devin Booker, one of Durant’s teammates, succinctly captured the team's sentiments toward Durant's absence, "Yeah, obviously tough. It's impossible to replace what he brings to our team," he remarked. "Even just his presence around the team. Not even having him on the bench in the second half was tough. But we still fought." The Suns certainly showed resilience, but the road ahead demands adjustments and contributions from the entire roster.
Adapting to Changes
Throughout the season, Phoenix has been no stranger to adversity due to injuries. November posed its own challenges when Durant missed seven games because of a strained left calf, during which the Suns struggled to a 1-6 record. Compounding the issue was Bradley Beal's absence for five of those games, underscoring the impact of missing key players.
Head coach Mike Budenholzer acknowledges the challenges of rotating lineups due to injuries but also views it as an opportunity for growth and adaptability. "You know it's part of our league. We're not any different. I'm sure there's not a team in the league that's not dealing with some people in and out of lineups," Budenholzer noted. He further emphasized the importance of team adaptability, "Hopefully we teach and start to learn a way of playing that's good for everybody regardless of who's healthy and who's not, and guys can find ways to contribute." Such a mindset could be crucial for maintaining momentum as the team awaits Durant’s return.
Other Players Stepping Up
The potential for other players to seize the moment and make their mark is clearly on the coaching staff's mind. Budenholzer succinctly points out, "Other people have opportunities to get more minutes." This opens the door for players who have been waiting for more playing time to showcase their abilities and step up when the team needs them most.
One player who could be pivotal is Jusuf Nurkic, although he is currently dealing with a right thigh contusion and has missed the last two games. Once healthy, his contribution will be vital. Meanwhile, with Durant, Booker, and Beal having shared only 175 minutes on the court together this season, there remains an unfulfilled potential within these star-studded lineups.
Looking Past the Hurdles
The Suns’ resilience shines through with a current season record standing at 12-8. This grit was also evident during their NBA Cup group play where they finished with a 3-1 record before being eliminated. Such experiences could prove instrumental as the team eyes a deep playoff run later in the season.
As Phoenix continues to maneuver through the challenges ahead, the integration of Durant, once he returns, will be paramount. Yet, as Budenholzer indicates, the ongoing process of learning and adaptation may eventually sculpt a more cohesive and versatile team. With the knowledge gained from handling such adversities, the Suns remain poised to tackle whatever comes their way, drawing on lessons from both past and present.