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Suns’ Matt Ishbia Takes Clear Stance After Kevin Durant Trade, Bradley Beal Release

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elie Deglaoui | Last updated Aug 22, 2025 3:41 PM ET

After failing to make the postseason last season, the Phoenix Suns underwent some major roster changes this summer as they usher in a new era. Most notably, they traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and waived Bradley Beal, who then went on to join the Los Angeles Clippers.

While Phoenix did acquire some intriguing players, such as Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams, as well as Khaman Maluach in the draft, the general consensus is that they got worse this offseason. Given that they have not won a playoff game in two years, this is not a great position for them to be in.

Despite what some may think of the Suns' outlook, owner Mat Ishbia recently sent a strong message and made his stance on the team clear.

Given their moves this offseason, it is fair for many to assume that the Suns will not be in legitimate title contention. This is especially true given how stacked the Western Conference is. However, it seems that Ishbia's confidence in the team has not waned, and he still expects them to be competitive (h/t Damon Allred of Arizona Sports).

"What I expect is we’re gonna be competitive, a team that you’re gonna be proud of and we’re gonna be building,” Ishbia said. “Over the next couple years, you’re gonna see us follow that same Phoenix Mercur y path to be competing for a championship, playing hard."

"Everyone’s gonna rally around these guys, and I’m excited about it.”

The Suns May Have a Tough Season Ahead of Them

The Suns' trio of Durant, Beal, and Devin Booker never fully panned out, and it was in the team's best interest to move on from it as quickly as possible. Because of this, there is a lot to like about what the future holds in Phoenix, but next season specifically may be a bit of a struggle.

It will be incredibly difficult for the Suns to make a deep run next season. Not only does their roster still have a lot to be desired, but it will be tough for them to compete with some of the other teams in the conference, particularly the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Suns still have a talented roster, and better days are likely ahead of them. However, as it stands, it will be very tough for them to immediately re-insert themselves in the title picture, regardless of what Ishbia says.

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

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