The Phoenix Suns were taken down by the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night, falling 118-110 to that team and bringing their season record to 35-26.
Kevin Durant tried to lead the team but he was limited to just 20 points for the entire game because of the strong defensive plan from the Thunder.
After the loss, Durant told Duane Rankin how the Thunder’s plan to double-team him worked effectively and minimized his output.
“I’m trying to figure out ways to get going. It’s hard to get going in my spots when as soon as I dribble the ball, somebody coming to double-team,” Durant said.
"They were doubling at halfcourt."
Kevin Durant on how OKC defended him as he finished with 20 points in #Suns loss.
"I'm trying to figure out ways to get going. It's hard to get going in my spots when as soon as I dribble the ball, somebody coming to double team." #ThunderUp pic.twitter.com/SOGJOslT89
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) March 4, 2024
Durant got some impressive shots off during the game, including two three-pointers, but it was clear that the Thunder had a plan to keep him boxed in all night.
In the end, that approach absolutely worked.
The Thunder are one of the youngest and most energetic teams in the NBA so they have the ability to race up to Durant the moment he gets the ball.
If he decides to pass, they can then follow it or remain glued to Durant.
They are using their youthful speed against the older and slower Suns.
Sunday’s game was a tough loss for the Suns, who are now the seventh seed in the Western Conference with a 35-26 record.
They have some tough opponents ahead, with the Denver Nuggets waiting for them on Tuesday and the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers looming after that.
Plus, they will be without Devin Booker for a few games as he recovers from his latest injury.
That means that Durant will need to do even more in the days ahead if the Suns wish to climb higher in the standings before the playoffs.
NEXT: Insider Gives Latest Injury Update On Devin Booker