The Phoenix Suns are in a tight battle for a play-in spot in the Western Conference, currently trailing the Dallas Mavericks by a half-game for 10th place. With the Portland Trail Blazers and San Antonio Spurs just 3.5 games behind, every game is crucial for Phoenix's playoff hopes.
Hoping to continue their recent momentum, the Suns welcomed the red-hot Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. However, they were outclassed by the defending champions, suffering a 132-102 blowout loss. Kevin Durant was one of the few bright spots, finishing with 30 points in 30 minutes, while Devin Booker struggled, managing just 14 points in 34 minutes.
Durant started strong, scoring 16 first-quarter points to help Phoenix stay within four points of Boston. However, in a surprising move, head coach Mike Budenholzer benched Durant to start the second quarter-a decision that backfired as the Celtics extended their lead to 19 by halftime.
When asked about not playing to start the second quarter, Durant gave a candid response.
"I prefer to play 48 minutes every night, but I know how realistic that is," Durant said. "I feel like I'm always simmering hot regardless. I might be 0-for-10, and you've seen games this year where I start 1-of-9 and finish strong because I feel like I'm always hot. Maybe that's a little overconfidence in myself or delusion, but that's how I feel when I'm out there."
I asked Kevin Durant about sitting to start 2Q after his hot 1Q: "I prefer to play 48 minutes every night, but I know how realistic that is. I feel like I'm always simmering hot though...Maybe that's a little bit of overconfidence in myself or delusion, but that's how I feel" pic.twitter.com/n0Iwl3LtSA
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) March 27, 2025
Despite Phoenix's inconsistencies, Durant has been exceptional in his second full season with the team. The 15-time All-Star is averaging 26.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, while shooting 53.0% from the field and 43.0% from three in 60 games.
The Suns entered the season with championship aspirations, but now risk missing the playoffs entirely. They'll need to bounce back quickly when they hit the road to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night.
Related: Celtics' Payton Pritchard Makes History in Suns Game
Related: Jayson Tatum Makes Admission After Celtics' $6.1 Billion Move
Copyright 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published March 28, 2025 at 1:46 PM.