Durant Finds Joy in Winning Shot Against Old Team
Kevin Durant enjoyed a special moment on Monday, hitting a game-winning 3-pointer against the Suns. This win felt particularly sweet for him, especially considering that Phoenix has attributed some of its struggles to him since their recent trade.
During the offseason, the Suns sent Durant to the Rockets after their trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal didn’t meet expectations. “Absolutely,” Durant responded when asked about his feelings post-game, which ended 100-97 in favor of Houston.
“It’s a place I didn’t want to leave. I don’t want to be overly dramatic about being pushed out, but this is the first time I’ve felt that way. I think I’m being made the scapegoat for the issues last year. So, yeah, it felt great to get that final shot,” he added.
Durant, now 37, had high hopes when he joined the Suns for the 2022-23 season. He played two and a half seasons there and partnered with Booker to guide the team to the Western Conference semifinals. Unfortunately, they fell short against the Nuggets.
After bringing in Beal, the organization aimed for greater success but ended up being swept by Minnesota in the 2024 playoffs. Their performance last season was disappointing, managing a 36-46 record and ultimately leading to Durant’s trade to the Rockets, where Beal was also acquired.
Even with the transitions, Durant maintained his exceptional form, averaging 26.8 points per game during his time with the Suns.
“It feels good to face the team that let me go and that had some issues,” he mentioned. “I really poured my heart into the Suns and the Phoenix area. But, it’s just business. When you’re up against your former team, there’s definitely a chip on your shoulder.”
Expectations now rest on the Rockets after bringing Durant aboard. With Monday’s victory, they are tied for fourth in the Western Conference with a record of 22-11.
Durant clinched the win with an inbounds pass and a 3-pointer that put Houston ahead with just 1.1 seconds remaining.
“I want to beat that team, not out of malice, but out of love for my fellow players. It’s about proving that even though I’m older, I’m still good,” Durant shared. “Every player feels a competitive fire when they face their old team. Do I want to win and hit that shot against them? Absolutely.”
