Kevin Garnett Calls for Suns’ Roster Overhaul Amid Struggles

PHOENIX, Ariz. — NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett spoke critically about the Phoenix Suns’ roster on his podcast Monday, declaring that the team’s Big 3 experiment is over. With the Suns currently struggling to maintain a foothold in the playoff race, Garnett suggested that drastic changes are necessary for the upcoming offseason.

Garnett specifically addressed the trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, suggesting that their overlapping playing styles have stifled the team’s success. “I think Phoenix needs a makeover,” Garnett stated. “You’ve got three players playing the same way that need the same thing. They need space.”

The Suns, who stand at 26-28 and sit 11th in the Western Conference, may face significant roster changes if they cannot turn their season around. Garnett hinted that if the Suns experience another early exit from the postseason, they could consider trading Durant. “He’s probably going to get traded this summer,” ESPN‘s Brian Windhorst echoed, adding that both Durant and the Suns recognize this possibility.

Current financial obligations loom over the organization, with a payroll exceeding $230 million, not including an additional $100 million in luxury tax. “You have an extremely expensive team that is not winning,” Windhorst noted. “Their player, who is their most expensive player, is playing great but not impacting them on a positive level.”

Amid reports linking Durant back to the Golden State Warriors, where he won championships in 2017 and 2018, Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro clarified that Durant has no interest in a reunion with Golden State or being traded in general.

As for Beal, Garnett voiced his concerns regarding his current role. “I don’t like how they’re using Bradley Beal. I don’t like him coming off the bench,” said Garnett. The Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer has faced challenges utilizing Beal effectively, resulting in inconsistency within the lineup.

This season has been underwhelming for the Suns, as injuries have affected the star trio’s ability to compete consistently. The franchise, which finished sixth in the West last season, is now facing the grim reality of potentially rebuilding their roster.

With the NBA trade deadline having passed this season, the Suns explored various options to deal both Beal and Durant, but obstacles such as contracts and no-trade clauses hindered progress. As the season progresses, the Suns must decide whether to attempt to salvage their core or risk moving on from key players.