The Phoenix Suns continued their winning ways on Sunday with a 128-118 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, thanks in large part to the all-around brilliance of Kevin Durant. The power forward put up 35 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two blocks on 13-of-21 shooting in just 35 minutes of play. Durant’s performance was a masterclass in basketball, as he showcased his abilities in all aspects of the game, from ball rotations to weak-side rim protection. In addition to KD’s marvelous performance, Chris Paul had something to say about him.
Despite the Suns’ firm control of the game after the first quarter, the Thunder made a late surge to cut the deficit to just five points. However, they were unable to defend against Phoenix’s offensive sets, including a double-drag play that Chris Paul called with just over six minutes left in the game. The Thunder’s weak-side defender swung over to help out on the rolling big man, but it was Durant who ultimately proved too much to handle.
Chris Paul speaks about Kevin Durant
After the game, Paul spoke about getting used to playing with Durant, who was traded to the Suns in February. While he praised Durant’s skills, he also acknowledged that the team still has some work to do on defense and reducing fouls. Nonetheless, the Suns are looking forward to using their last few games of the regular season to continue building chemistry and getting used to playing with a great player like Durant.
Chris Paul in his post-game talk with ESPN said, “It was pretty good, the defense still gotta get better, a lot of fouls. I was mad at myself for a lot of 3s I passed. Still, we are trying to get used to it. We are gonna use these last few games, you know playing with a great player like that.” In response to Paul’s words, many fans took to the comment section to express their thoughts on the Suns. Here a few comments:
“KD is the best player in the NBA hands down”
“Just remember suns have been to the finals twice in franchise history and have 0 rings in franchise history ..kd need this ring just to shut the haters up and When the suns get one I wounder what the haters gone say next
“Lol the hate for this team is real but you know what they say, you didn’t make it if you don’t have haters”
“I sense a little jealousy of Durant”
“Crazy KD really on the sun’s lol. Don’t even look right”
“I love how everyone keeps saying suns winning the title of everyone healthy like people don’t remember Chris Paul and booker blowing a 2-0 lead in a NBA final and KD playoff record before he joined the GSW
Suns’ great display against the OKC
In addition to Durant’s standout performance, Devin Booker added 22 points and 10 assists, DeAndre Ayton had 19 points and 11 rebounds, and Paul had 16 points and eight assists. The Suns shot an impressive 56.8% from the field, matching their season high.
Overall, the Suns’ win over the Thunder was just proof of the team’s talent and chemistry, as well as Durant’s ability to elevate the play of those around him. As the regular season winds down, the Suns will look to continue their winning ways and build momentum heading into the playoffs.
Source: essentiallysports.com
