The Phoenix Suns couldn’t have had it any worse. Without Kevin Durant in the active lineup, the Valley fell victim to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the MVP frontrunner drops another 50-piece this season. To say that the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated is a bit of an understatement. SGA and OKC were just too much for the Suns through four quarters, resulting to a 140-109 blowout win.
OKC: The Best of Both Worlds
The Thunder completely trashed a shorthanded Suns, both offensively and defensively. Gilgeous-Alexander then capped the night with 50 points. In a span of less than three weeks, SGA managed to record three 50-point outings. On top of that, the Canadian star also grabbed 8 boards and dished 5 dimes.
However, what really separated the two Western teams was DEFENSE. OKC proved how they’re the best in the league when it comes to defense. With SGA, Luguentz Dort, Jalen Williams, and Alex Caruso all recognized as some of the best perimeter defenders in the league, there’s no doubt why the Thunder is No.1 in the NBA in terms of defensive rating.
Kevin Durant’s Time in Phoenix Now in the Brink of Extinction
There’s just a day left before the trade deadline expires, but the Suns are still actively “listening” to offers. Golden State and Miami have put their best foot forward to acquire KD, while the Mavericks, after the blockbuster Luka-AD swap, are still seeking to add the Slim Reaper to the Kyrie-Davis duo.
It seems that Durant’s time in Phoenix is about to be over, unless the Suns’ front office do something immaculate with their lackluster roster.
