Mar 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) helps up guard Devin Booker (1) from the floor during the second half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

'He’s Surprised at How Little He Was Used' – Former Phoenix Suns Guard Gives Insight on Kevin Durant’s Frustrations With the Team

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 6:57 PM ET

The Phoenix Suns cut their losses this summer by offloading Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal after falling well short of expectations during the 2024-25 campaign, following a 36-46 regular season record.

Vasilije Micic, who was traded to the Phoenix Suns last February, offered his insights on Durant’s frustrations during his brief tenure with the squad.

“He’s surprised at how little he was used in Phoenix as an example, considering what he’s doing,” Micic said on the X&O’s Chat Podcast via Basketball Network. “KD often has that uncomfortable body language, but he’s actually a cool guy.”

Feb 25, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) drives to the basket as Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) defends during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

“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,” he added.

Phoenix Suns guard labeled as the team’s biggest x-factor in 2025-26

The Phoenix Suns acquired Jalen Green as part of the historic Kevin Durant trade, and SI’s Brenden Mau named Green as a key player for the team’s fortunes this upcoming season.

Mar 17, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) reacts after a play during overtime against the Philadelphia 76ers at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

“Phoenix needs Green to be its second-best offensive player, but can’t afford his inconsistencies and lack of playmaking ability he showed with the Houston Rockets,” Mau wrote.

“With the Suns’ lack of shot creating outside of Booker and Green, Green will have to adapt his game to whatever is needed from him in Phoenix but shine on offense as the No. 2 behind Booker, something he didn’t have to do as the No. 1 scoring guard option in Houston last season,” he added.