Devin Booker Rejects Notion of Being a Passive Offensive Player

The Phoenix Suns star disputes claims that he has become less aggressive on offense this season.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker has been criticized by some for being a more passive offensive player this season, but the two-time All-Star strongly disagrees with that narrative. Booker, who is averaging 25.2 points and 6.3 assists per game, says he has always been focused on making the right plays and creating for his teammates, rather than just hunting his own shot. The Suns are relying on Booker to continue leading them as their best player, whether that means being the primary scorer or facilitating the offense.

Why it matters

Booker is one of the NBA's elite shooting guards, known for his scoring ability. However, some have suggested he has become less aggressive on offense this season, which could be a concern for the Suns as they look to build on their surprising success. Booker's comments push back on that perception and emphasize his well-rounded game as a playmaker.

The details

Over the years, Booker has developed into one of the league's most skilled offensive players, with the ability to score at all three levels. While he has continued to put up impressive numbers this season, averaging 25.2 points per game, some have criticized him for not being aggressive enough. Booker strongly disagrees with that narrative, saying he has always focused on making the right plays and creating for his teammates, rather than just looking to score. The Suns are comfortable building their offense around Booker's versatile skill set, which allows him to thrive as both a scorer and a facilitator.

  • Booker has been a star in the NBA for over a decade.
  • The Suns reached the NBA Finals in 2021 with Booker as their best player.
  • This season, the Suns have emerged as one of the league's top teams.

The players

Devin Booker

A two-time NBA All-Star and the centerpiece of the Phoenix Suns' roster, known for his scoring ability and well-rounded offensive game.

Jalen Green

The Suns' young co-star who has finally become healthy this season, providing Booker with another dynamic offensive threat to work with.

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What they’re saying

“People have been saying that about me for years, that I'm passing the ball now. Eventually, I think they'll catch on, man. I just have a knack for playing the right way. I create 2 on the ball, I try to make the right play. Whether it's a real game, the Olympics, or the All-Star game, that's just what I naturally do.”

— Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Guard

What’s next

As the Suns continue their push for the playoffs, Booker will look to lead the team by continuing to play an aggressive, well-rounded game on offense, whether that means scoring or facilitating for his teammates.

The takeaway

Devin Booker's comments push back on the narrative that he has become a more passive offensive player, emphasizing his focus on making the right plays and creating for his teammates. The Suns' success this season has been built around Booker's versatile skill set, and he remains committed to leading the team in whatever way is needed, whether that means being the primary scorer or facilitating the offense.