Western Conference Player of the Week: How Important is 36-Year-Old Kevin Durant to the Suns?

In a season where many have questioned the longevity and consistency of aging stars, Kevin Durant continues to prove that age is just a number. At 36 years old, Durant has not only silenced doubters but has been the driving force behind the Phoenix Suns' recent success, earning him the Western Conference Player of the Week honor. This achievement, while impressive, underscores the crucial role Durant plays for a team that, at the start of the season, found themselves struggling to secure a playoff spot.

Durant's performance has been nothing short of remarkable, and the statistics back it up. Over the last few games, he has consistently delivered at a high level, both as a scorer and a facilitator, reaffirming his status as one of the most reliable and dominant players in the league, regardless of his age. Let’s break down his recent contributions and explore why Durant is so critical to the Suns' playoff aspirations.

The Impressive Stats Behind Durant's Recent Surge

In the Suns' recent win streak, Durant has been the central figure. During the last four games, Durant has averaged 30.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, with an incredible true shooting percentage of 72.3%. His field goal percentage stands at 56.9%, while his three-point shooting is at a scorching 57.7%. These numbers are astounding for any player, let alone a 36-year-old who has been in the league for over a decade and has already achieved so much in his career.

In Phoenix's 108-106 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, Durant was the clear catalyst. While Devin Booker made the game-winning shot with only 5.7 seconds left, it was Durant who carried the Suns throughout the game. He played 37 minutes, scoring 38 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, dishing out 5 assists, and even blocking 3 shots. His third-quarter performance was particularly crucial, scoring 13 points in 12 minutes to help the Suns overcome a deficit and take the lead. Durant’s ability to come through in clutch moments, even when his teammates aren’t firing on all cylinders, has been a hallmark of his play this season.

The Consistency That Makes Durant So Valuable

Durant's recent performance isn't just a flash in the pan; it’s part of a sustained level of excellence that has been crucial for the Suns throughout the season. In a previous game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Durant dropped 42 points while also contributing 6 rebounds and 8 assists. While Booker struggled with his shooting, Durant’s ability to step up and carry the team was on full display. This wasn’t an isolated incident. In the Suns’ 127-121 victory over the Chicago Bulls, Durant played a pivotal role in supporting Booker’s explosive scoring, scoring 26 points through three quarters and ensuring the Suns maintained control of the game.

Even in blowout wins, Durant has been a key contributor. Against the Toronto Raptors, a game the Suns won by 40 points, Durant scored just 14 points in only 26 minutes of action, but his efficiency and ability to contribute even without needing to dominate the ball speaks volumes about his all-around game and leadership.

Durant’s Impact Beyond the Box Score

What makes Durant so important to the Suns isn't just his scoring ability. It's his leadership, his basketball IQ, and his defensive presence. On defense, Durant has been a rock for the Suns, helping them lock down opposing offenses. His defensive rating has been exceptional, and his ability to contest shots, whether it be blocking or altering them, is a major reason why Phoenix has been able to string together wins.

Furthermore, Durant’s presence on the floor makes everything easier for his teammates. Booker, while undoubtedly a fantastic player, benefits from the spacing and attention Durant commands. Opposing defenses can’t afford to focus solely on Booker, which opens up opportunities for both players. When both players are on the floor together, the Suns become nearly impossible to defend, as teams have to pick their poison: Try to stop Booker’s scoring or try to contain Durant’s versatility.

Durant’s unselfishness has also been a major asset to the Suns' offense. His ability to facilitate and create for others, as seen in his 8 assists against the Cavaliers, is a testament to his evolving game. As a player who has often been the focal point of his offense, Durant now seems more than comfortable with finding teammates and allowing others to share the spotlight. This maturity in his game, especially as he enters the twilight years of his career, is exactly what the Suns need as they look to contend in the postseason.

A Look Back at Durant’s Leadership Role During the Suns’ Struggles

It’s hard to forget that just a few months ago, the Suns were struggling to find their footing in the Western Conference. At one point, Phoenix found themselves as low as 11th in the West, with playoff hopes looking increasingly bleak. However, since Durant’s arrival and his subsequent rise to the team’s focal point, the Suns have steadily climbed the standings.

The Suns’ current four-game win streak has propelled them into the 10th seed in the West, keeping them in the play-in tournament hunt. While many pundits doubted the Suns’ chances against tough Western Conference teams, Durant’s leadership has been instrumental in turning the tide. The team has had to face tough opponents like the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Denver Nuggets, all of whom have top-tier players like Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Nikola Jokić. Durant’s ability to rise to the occasion in these high-pressure situations has given the Suns hope that they can navigate this brutal stretch and secure a spot in the playoffs.

Durant’s Mindset: A Lesson in Professionalism and Focus

What stands out most about Durant’s recent performances isn’t just his skill or athleticism—it's his mindset. Despite being at the center of trade rumors and speculation, Durant has remained laser-focused on helping the Suns win. Just in the past week, Durant has been linked with several teams, including the Houston Rockets and Miami Heat, but he has chosen to remain professional and dedicated to his current team.

The trade deadline saw Durant’s name floated in various trade scenarios, but despite the noise surrounding him, Durant has continued to play at an elite level. His commitment to the Suns is evident in his play, and he’s shown that he is determined to help Phoenix succeed, no matter the external distractions. This level of professionalism is not only impressive but serves as an example for younger players on the team.

The Road Ahead for the Suns: Tough but Manageable

Looking ahead, the Suns’ schedule is about to get even more difficult. Over the next eight games, they will face some of the toughest teams in the league, including back-to-back matchups against the Boston Celtics, Thunder, Rockets, Warriors, Knicks, Bucks, and Timberwolves. While these matchups may appear daunting, the Suns have proven they can rise to the occasion, especially with Durant leading the charge.

If the Suns can continue their strong play, Durant’s leadership will be critical in pushing them through this tough stretch. Given his recent form, there’s little doubt that Durant can carry this momentum into the postseason, where the Suns will need him most.

Durant's Role in the Suns’ Long-Term Success

Looking beyond this season, Durant’s impact on the Suns goes far beyond immediate success. His ability to mentor younger players, like Deandre Ayton and Matisse Thybulle, could help the Suns build a sustainable future. Moreover, Durant’s presence in Phoenix provides the Suns with the kind of star power that few teams can match. As long as Durant remains healthy and continues to perform at this level, the Suns have a legitimate shot at competing for championships in the years to come.

In conclusion, Durant’s importance to the Suns cannot be overstated. At 36, he’s playing some of the best basketball of his career, and his leadership is guiding Phoenix toward playoff contention. With his scoring, defense, and ability to elevate his teammates, Durant has proven that he remains one of the most valuable players in the league. Whether or not the Suns make a deep playoff run this season, Durant’s influence on the team’s success is undeniable, and his legacy as one of the game’s greats continues to grow.