Devin Booker Sends Clear Luka Doncic Message

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Mar 22, 2025 3:52 PM ET

Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker has solidified himself as one of the greatest players in his team's history. Since being selected 13th overall in the 2015 NBA draft, Booker has spent 10 seasons with the franchise, highlighted by a 2021 NBA Finals appearance.

However, despite boasting the most expensive roster in the league, the Suns are enduring a disappointing season. Alongside Booker, the team features Kevin Durant, a four-time scoring champion, and star guard Bradley Beal, while being led by championship-winning coach Mike Budenholzer.

Yet, Phoenix finds itself 10th in the Western Conference with a 33-37 record, falling well below preseason expectations.

As a result, trade speculation has surrounded the franchise, particularly regarding Durant and Booker, who signed a $228 million extension that keeps him in Phoenix through 2027-28. When asked about the possibility of a trade, Booker referenced Luka Doncic’s shocking move to the Los Angeles Lakers last month.

"Look at the situation that got Luka here," Booker told FOX Sports. "I understand that it's a business. I've been around a long time. The Luka one is probably the craziest trade we've seen. But the game just keeps going."

Exclusive: The Phoenix Suns have so much talent in Devin Booker, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, yet they’re in 10th place in the West.

What gives?

“Talent only gets you so far,” Booker told me.https://t.co/glqxkn2fKP
— Melissa Rohlin (@melissarohlin) March 21, 2025

Despite the rumors, Suns owner Mat Ishbia has reaffirmed his commitment to Booker, telling ESPN that he has no plans to trade the franchise cornerstone.

Since their 2021 Finals run, the Suns have failed to advance past the second round of the playoffs, including a humiliating loss to Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks in 2023, followed by a first round sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves last season.

With only 12 games left in the regular season, the Suns will fight for a play-in spot and hope to pull off an upset in a stacked Western Conference.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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