Devin Booker called the last two seasons with the Phoenix Suns the “toughest” of his career during 2025 Suns Media Day. He expressed regret over not achieving the team’s goals despite playing alongside Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.
“It was tough. I think just not getting to where we wanted to with Kevin and Brad, two guys that I have a high respect for and always will,” Booker said, via Duane Rankin. “The opportunity to play alongside with them was a lot in its own, but it will always be a disappointment to me to not do what we all sought out to do.”
Booker pointed to a disconnect among players and differing objectives as major challenges. He told The Burns & Gambo Show, “I don’t think there was any hatred in our last group amongst the guys. I just think when you are all on a different plan and don’t have the same common goal or same objective then that’s what it turns into.”
Despite team struggles, Booker’s individual performance remained strong. He averaged 27.1 points and 6.9 assists in 2023–24, earning his fourth All-Star selection and posting historic 60-plus-point games against Indiana and New Orleans.
In 2024–25, Booker became the Suns’ all-time leading scorer, surpassing Walter Davis. He also scored a season-high 47 points in an overtime win against Utah and averaged 25.6 points and 7.1 assists for the season.
Phoenix has undergone major offseason changes, firing Mike Budenholzer and hiring Jordan Ott on a four-year deal. Brian Gregory was promoted to general manager, while James Jones moved to the NBA league office.
The Suns completed a record-breaking seven-team trade, sending Kevin Durant to the Rockets and acquiring Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and rookie Khaman Maluach, among other assets. Bradley Beal’s remaining contract was waived and stretched to improve financial flexibility.
Booker recently signed a two-year extension with Phoenix, solidifying his role as the franchise cornerstone. Management hopes his leadership, combined with new talent and coaching, will help the team return to playoff contention.
