Durant lifts Rockets over former club
On Monday night, Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant drained a three-pointer with one second left to secure a win against the Phoenix Suns, the franchise that traded him last summer. Speaking afterward, the 37-year-old said defeating a team that “moved on” from him added extra satisfaction. Durant noted he had invested “effort, love and care” in Phoenix, and although he still respects the Suns’ players, facing his former team gives him “a chip on the shoulder.”
The Suns began exploring Durant trade scenarios before last season’s deadline, ultimately sending the 13-time All-Star to Houston after he declined a reunion with Golden State. Monday marked his first game in Phoenix since the deal.
Sanders strengthens case for full contract
Clippers rookie guard Kobe Sanders, filling in for an injured James Harden (shoulder), posted career bests of 20 points, seven rebounds and 36 minutes in his fourth NBA start. The second-round pick has appeared in 29 games on a two-way deal and is drawing praise from head coach Tyronn Lue, who cited the 22-year-old’s poise and growing confidence on both ends of the floor.
Kerr ejected after officiating dispute
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was tossed in the third quarter of Monday’s one-point loss to the Clippers after receiving two technical fouls while arguing several calls, including a missed goaltend that crew chief Brian Forte later acknowledged. Veteran assistant Terry Stotts finished the game on the bench and handled postgame media duties, joking that he was “saving Steve some money.”
Butler not worried about Kuminga’s reduced role
Forward Jonathan Kuminga logged his ninth consecutive game on the bench — and seventh straight coach’s decision — in the same contest. Asked whether the lack of playing time is weighing on his teammate, Warriors star Jimmy Butler said it is not, calling Kuminga a “friend and brother.” Butler encouraged the 23-year-old to keep working, stay positive and remember he is still among “the best players in the world.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
