Suns' Season Has Surprised Everyone — Including Kevin Durant

Phoenix has shocked the NBA world with its success this season.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Phoenix Suns have exceeded all expectations this NBA season, sitting in the Western Conference playoff picture despite major roster changes over the summer. Even star player Kevin Durant, who was traded away from the Suns, admitted that no one thought Phoenix would be this good. The Suns have managed to stay competitive despite injuries to key players like Devin Booker and Jalen Green.

Why it matters

The Suns' surprising success this season has defied preseason predictions and shown the depth of talent and coaching in the highly competitive Western Conference. Their ability to remain in playoff position despite roster turnover and injuries highlights the team's resilience and adaptability.

The details

The Suns made major changes in the offseason, trading away stars Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. They also replaced their general manager and head coach. Despite these significant moves, the Suns currently sit in the 7th seed in the West, just two games back of the 4th spot. The West has been as tough as ever this season, but the Suns have managed to stay in the mix, even surprising Durant himself, who plays for the 4th-place Houston Rockets.

  • The Suns made major roster changes over the past summer.
  • With 27 games left in the regular season, the Suns are in the 7th seed in the West.

The players

Kevin Durant

A star player who was traded away from the Suns in the offseason and now plays for the Houston Rockets.

Devin Booker

A key player for the Suns who has missed time due to injury this season.

Jalen Green

Another Suns player who has dealt with injuries this season.

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What they’re saying

“It's a crazy conference, man. You can look up and drop down two spots in a night and rise up two spots in a night.”

— Kevin Durant (si.com)

“This is exciting. Like what we're playing for the next 27 games, that's exciting.”

— Jordan Ott, Suns Coach (si.com)

What’s next

The Suns will look to continue their surprising season and secure a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference.

The takeaway

The Suns' ability to remain competitive despite major roster changes and injuries has been a revelation this NBA season, defying preseason predictions and showcasing the depth of talent and coaching in the West.