Former Suns Kevin Durant was frustrated with usage in Phoenix, says former teammate

Micic on former Suns teammate’s grievances with team:

“He’s surprised at how little he was used in Phoenix as an example, considering what he’s doing. KD often has that uncomfortable body language, but he’s actually a cool guy. That’s just his protection, he has his reasons for being that way, but he’s very open to conversation. He’s extra intelligent. We used to talk, and his basketball vision is on a completely different level, from understanding to analyzing the opponent.”

Micic arrived midseason from the Charlotte Hornets via a trade, well into the Suns dysfunctional season. The 31-year-old Serbian guard saw Durant’s frustration up close and personal, believing to have open conversation with the future Hall of Famer.

Durant appeared on Lebron James’ podcast “Mind the Game,” and stated similar thoughts as to what Micic stated in his quote. The 15-time All-Star wanted his teammates in Phoenix to be more spot-up shooters and take 3-pointers instead of trying to generate their own shots.

Many Suns players would try to take midrange shots, when Durant believes on him and Devin Booker should be taking those type of shots. Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer have been seen clashing heads on the bench multiple times during games, most notably being the March 4th game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Breakups are usually long and messy, which could definitely describe the relationship between the franchise and Durant moving forward.