Report: Kevin Durant 'never felt comfortable' in Suns' offense

Kevin Durant's post-Warriors legacy took another hit Sunday as his Suns were swept by the Timberwolves. The outcome marked the second time a Durant-led team suffered a first-round sweep in the playoffs since he left the Bay, following his Nets' 4-0 loss to the Celtics in 2022.

After Sunday's loss, The Athletic reported that Durant "never felt comfortable in his role" in Phoenix's offense playing alongside fellow stars Devin Booker and Bradley Beal.

"Those sources said Durant had persistent issues with the offense, feeling that he was being relegated to the corner far too often and not having the proper designs to play to his strengths as the offense was built around pick-and-rolls," read the report.

The report added that some teammates and people close to the Suns organization felt Durant "needed to voice his concerns more adamantly and directly" to Frank Vogel's coaching staff rather than being passive.

In the past, Durant has been criticized for being too timid and not confronting his teammates and coaches when things go awry. Durant's lack of leadership was evident during the devastating loss to the Timberwolves. For example, the Texas alum attempted only three shots during the fourth quarter of Sunday's elimination game when it was time for a player of his ilk to take over.

Durant registered his typical stats of 26.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists, and was efficient as always, shooting 55.2 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from three. But, between the lines, Durant failed to match the intensity and hunger of Anthony Edwards. That's why he's headed home early — yet again.

The former two-time Finals MVP has not advanced past the second round since leaving Golden State.