Kevin Durant has reassured fans that he will continue to play for the Phoenix Suns, despite speculation surrounding his future with the team. The 15-time All-Star was the subject of intense trade rumors leading up to last week’s deadline, but he is committed to helping the franchise succeed.
Durant, who has been out of action for three games due to a sprained ankle, hopes to return for Tuesday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The Suns have struggled without him, going just 2-11 this season when Durant is not in the lineup. However, Durant remains one of the league’s top scorers, averaging nearly 27 points per game.
Phoenix general manager James Jones downplayed the trade rumors, saying it’s just part of the business. “It always gets noisy when you’re not winning,” he said. Despite the attention, Durant is focused on his goal to play out his contract with the Suns. He believes being in high demand is a good thing, as it shows he remains an elite player.
With the trade deadline behind them, the Suns are now looking to gain ground in the standings, currently tied for ninth place in the Western Conference with a 26-26 record. The team’s core trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal will look to work together to get back on track.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43784549/kevin-durant-shrugs-trade-talk-part-business