Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer recently made the decision to move Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic to the bench, prompting a response from Suns star Kevin Durant. Beal, who has been a starter throughout his career, has adjusted to his new role by delivering strong performances off the bench.
In his first three games as a reserve, Beal scored 25, 10, and 25 points, leading the Suns to two victories. Despite the lineup change, Beal’s minutes have remained consistent, averaging around 33 minutes per game.
Durant shared his perspective on the situation, expressing that he doesn’t see much of a difference between Beal’s minutes coming off the bench versus starting.
“I don’t know the difference between his minutes coming off the bench or starting, but is it about the same? So like, is it really a change?…I feel like he’s just comfortable and understanding where his shot’s gonna come from,” Durant explained, as per Gerald Bourguet.
Beal has continued to produce for Phoenix, averaging 18 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 33.1 minutes per game this season. His scoring ability remains vital to the Suns’ offense, even as he adjusts to a new role on the team.
The Suns have faced struggles this season despite their star-studded lineup, which includes Durant, Beal, and Devin Booker. Phoenix is currently sitting 12th in the Western Conference with a 17-19 record, and the team is seeking ways to find consistency and improve their standing.
