Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant had a harsh realization following a tough 127-109 loss to the Toronto Raptors. The fourth quarter was particularly brutal for the Suns, as they were outscored 39-27. This game highlighted the same recurring issues that have plagued Phoenix throughout an underwhelming season, raising doubts about whether head coach Mike Budenholzer can find solutions anytime soon.
What stood out in this loss was Durant’s uncharacteristically poor performance. The 36-year-old, who has been stellar this season, struggled against Toronto, scoring just 15 points on 15 shots. He didn’t hold back in assessing both his own and the team’s shortcomings.
“We had these little spurs where each team would go off and go on a flurry on us, and that’s usually the game. Going on a 12-0 run or 19-5 runs. We’re playing good ball, and then to give up a run like that. It’s tough to fight back when teams score that many points in a row.
Tonight, if I had made more shots, we probably would have won. I got to force it and probably run up to the ball more. I got to rebound a bit more, four of them is not good enough. If we want us to win, I got to come better than what I did tonight.”
The Suns are slipping further behind in the Western Conference playoff race. With a 2-8 record in their last ten games, they now sit in 11th place, trailing the No. 10 seed by 1.5 games while facing the league’s toughest remaining schedule. Their biggest issue remains defense—Phoenix ranks 26th in defensive rating and struggled to contain the Raptors, even allowing backup big Chris Boucher to post 23 points and 10 rebounds.
Despite boasting offensive talent like Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, the Suns’ offensive rating has also been underwhelming. Durant understands the urgency of their situation, acknowledging the recurring problems in these losses.
With the season entering a crucial stretch, every game becomes more significant, and the Suns’ resilience will be put to the test. The franchise must soon determine whether this core can truly compete or if changes are needed.
