After a stunning 123-116 loss to the Lakers, Kevin Durant didn’t mince words about what cost the Phoenix Suns. Leading by as much as 22 points, the Suns let the game slip away, and Durant was quick to pinpoint two key issues: fouling and turnovers. “In the second and third (quarters), we just gave them momentum back,” Durant said post-game. “They did a good job of getting to the paint, causing the clock to stop with free throws…We gotta do a better job of not fouling. Then we turned the ball over a lot in that second quarter. We gave them momentum.”
With all three stars—Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker—on the floor, the Suns seemed poised for victory, but turnovers and fouls became their undoing. The Lakers exploited those errors, slowing down Phoenix’s rhythm and clawing back into the game with consistent trips to the line. This early-season stumble could signal issues the Suns will need to address if they hope to contend in the Western Conference.
New head coach Mike Budenholzer knows these mistakes are fixable, with discipline around the paint and smarter ball-handling reads being essential for Phoenix’s success. The Lakers found ways to rush Phoenix’s decisions, an area Budenholzer will undoubtedly target for improvement. Durant’s call-out is a reminder that if Phoenix aims for a deep playoff run, avoiding sloppy possessions and keeping composure are non-negotiable.
While this loss stings, it’s early in the season. With 80 games left, the Suns have time to iron out the wrinkles. But if Durant’s message resonates, this game could become a valuable wake-up call for a Suns team aiming for Western Conference dominance.
