The Phoenix Suns’ newly-acquired superstar Kevin Durant is expected to make a return to action next week. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Durant is targeting March 1st game against the Charlotte Hornets for his official Suns’ debut.
The Suns acquired Durant ahead of the NBA trade deadline in a blockbuster deal with the Brooklyn Nets that saw them give up talents Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson as well as four unprotected future first-round picks, among other assets. However, the 34-year-old player still hasn’t suited up for his new franchise due to an MCL sprain that kept him out since early January.
Before going down with the injury, Durant played at a high level and was considered an early MVP candidate. He was averaging 29.7 points per game on a career-high 55.9 percent shooting from the floor while also adding 6.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game.
Durant’s impending return is great news for the Suns as they are trying to get a better seeding in a crowded Western Conference. Phoenix is currently fifth with a 32-28 record after winning seven out of their last ten games. However, they are only three games in front of the Portland Trail Blazers, who are 12th and out of the play-in.
The Suns are getting healthy at the right time, considering their injury struggles earlier in the season. All-Stars Devin Booker and Chris Paul both missed extended time but are healthy again and playing in a good form.
