
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 1, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (left) on the bench with forward Kevin Durant (center) and guard Devin Booker against the Denver Nuggets at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 1, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (left) on the bench with forward Kevin Durant (center) and guard Devin Booker against the Denver Nuggets at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Phoenix Suns’ season has spiraled far below expectations, leaving fans and analysts alike searching for answers. Despite boasting a trio of superstar talents—Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal—the team has struggled to find its rhythm. Sitting 12th in the Western Conference with a 15-18 record, the Suns seem far, far away from their championship aspirations.
A recent viral clip capturing Durant and Beal shooting separately highlights a concerning lack of camaraderie. Typically, such practice sessions see teammates working together, building rapport, and fine-tuning strategies. In contrast, KD shared a basket with Devin Booker, while Bradley Beal was seen practicing with Tyus Jones. This shocking yet unsurprising disconnect has led many to question whether the chemistry between the Suns’ stars is as harmonious, as once expected.
Bradley Beal, in particular, has faced a challenging season. Averaging 17.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists across 23 games, his performance has been underwhelming. Frequent injuries and inconsistent form have further compounded the hoopster’s struggles. The decision to bench Beal and Nurkic in recent games also underscores the growing uncertainty within Mike Budenholzer’s rotation.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Signs of a fractured dynamic: Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal’s disconnect?
At the center of this turbulence is Kevin Durant, whose consistency on the court has been a beacon amid the chaos. Yet, even The Slim Reaper appears visibly frustrated as the Phoenix team continues to falter. A recent clip that surfaced online only added fuel to the fire, showing the Suns veteran and Beal practicing on separate baskets during a team session. The clip has sparked widespread speculation about the dynamics within the Big 3.
Just FYI.
Having seen Phoenix Suns get up shots after practice numerous times in Phoenix during media availability this season, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker have shot on one basket while Bradley Beal has shot on a different one with say Tyus Jones. #Suns pic.twitter.com/j6TLLK6pq8
Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 6, 2025
Bradley Beal’s struggles on the court are adding to the growing tension within the Suns’ locker room. He’s shooting 48.0% from the field and 39.2% from beyond the arc, but his scoring has not met the high expectations set during his time with the Washington Wizards. His performance has been further hindered by injuries, as he’s already missed 10 games. This has placed additional pressure on Kevin Durant and Devin Booker to carry the load, leading to an imbalance in contributions that may be fueling the friction.
The tension was clear after the Suns’ 108-126 loss to the Pacers. While Durant and Booker were seen laughing together in a viral image, Beal was far from amused. When asked about the team’s mood, Beal said, “We’re definitely pissed off,” contradicting the lighthearted moment. His poor performance, shooting just 3-for-12 from the field, added to the unease.
Fans have noticed his behavior, with some claiming, “he doesn’t wanna be there.” Others pointed out that Beal was absent from the huddles during timeouts, sparking rumors that he’s “checked out.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad

via Imago
Oct 25, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) on the sidelines with teammates during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
The Suns’ woes extend beyond individual performances, pointing to deeper issues in team cohesion and strategy. For Durant, the challenge lies in rallying his teammates and overcoming the obstacles threatening to derail their season. As rumors swirl and frustrations mount, the Suns must find a way to rediscover their identity.
If Durant and Beal can bridge any differences and align their efforts, the Suns still have time to salvage their campaign. Their combined talent remains a formidable asset—one that could yet turn the tide in Phoenix’s favor. However, in contrasting reports, the franchise is seemingly weighing the option of showing Beal the door. That would obviously come only if the player agrees because of the rare no-trade clause. LA, Miami, or Denver could be bright future destinations for the struggling star.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Regardless, the road ahead will test the Suns’ resilience, but with strong leadership and renewed focus, hope remains for a playoff push.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT