The Phoenix Suns are dealing with internal struggles, and their recent 107-96 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers only added to the growing concerns. On Sunday night, all eyes were once again on superstar Kevin Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer as tensions between the two took center stage.
During a timeout in the first quarter, Durant was visibly frustrated and exchanged heated words with Budenholzer. The coach responded in kind, intensifying speculation about a possible divide within the team. While the exact cause of their argument remains unknown, the visible tension has fueled rumors of a fractured locker room.
This is not the first time Durant and Budenholzer have interacted tensely. In a previous game against the Los Angeles Clippers, the coach extended his hand toward Durant, but Durant pulled his arm away and briefly exchanged words. The repeated incidents suggest a growing disconnect between the two.
Kevin Durant and Mike Budenholzer exchange words during the timeout.
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) March 16, 2025
(via @TSN_Sports)
pic.twitter.com/Kg8mbszYDE
Durant is not the only player rumored to have issues with Budenholzer. Reports indicate that Devin Booker has also experienced tense moments with the head coach.
The Suns’ struggles, both on and off the court, appear to be taking a toll on team chemistry. Despite the confrontation, Durant still delivered a solid performance, finishing the night with 21 points, nine rebounds, and two assists.
Mike Budenholzer Refutes Any Tension With Kevin Durant
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
After the previous heated exchange, both the head coach and Kevin Durant denied any tension between them. When asked about Durant’s on-court outburst against the Lakers, the head coach did the same.
“He’s always pushing us to win. He’s pushing us to be better. Trying to figure out the spacing. Sometimes figuring out the defensive. Are we putting two on the ball? And how we’re rotating. We have to figure it out; we have to be better,” Budenholzer said.
With the loss, the Suns dropped to a 31-37 record, sitting at the eleventh seed in the Western Conference. They have now lost six of their last ten games, and if the internal conflicts continue, their postseason hopes could slip away even further.
Also Read: Jimmy Butler Drops Bold Statement After Warriors’ Seventh Straight Win
