How can Phoenix Suns line up their starting 5 until Kevin Durant returns from injury?
It could take a while before Kevin Durant returns from injury, and the Phoenix Suns need to be able to hold their own without the star forward. The team acquired Durant during the trade deadline on Thursday, which was surprising, as the Brooklyn Nets reported multiple times that the star wasn't available.
Durant is recovering from an MCL sprain in his left knee. Based on updates in recent reports, it looks like KD's health is gradually improving. Some reports did show that the 6-foot-10 forward can comfortably walk without a knee brace.
Kevin Durant's first practice with Phoenix Suns (w/video) #Suns azcentral.com/story/sports/n…
In one workout video, the two-time Finals MVP can be seen knocking down corner 3-pointers with his teammate, T.J. Warren, in the practice facility.
There he is.
Kevin Durant. #Suns https://t.co/W5wPLNX7M6
According to a report by Suns beat writer Duane Rankin, Durant even had the willingness to play 1-on-1 against assistant coach Jarrett Jack, a former NBA guard.
Phoenix (31-27) is in a tricky position right now. Following their blockbuster trade, people are expecting the team to play the best basketball of their season. However, before Kevin Durant returns from injury, it could show that it isn't easy, especially after other Western Conference teams have upgraded their rosters at the deadline.
Also read: NBA Rumors: Phoenix Suns add new guard to complement Kevin Durant and Devin Booker
The Suns have other options for the starting lineup before Kevin Durant returns from injury
While the team has taken a hit in terms of roster depth since trading away Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson, things shouldn't go terribly. The Suns still have enough people that could help them possibly win the title. Together with Durant, Warren is back with the team and could be an option on the offensive end.
Aside from Warren, the Suns have reportedly started to pursue free agent forward Terrence Ross. The former Orlando Magic forward could be included in some of the starting lineups before Kevin Durant returns from injury. He's a capable scorer and can produce 10 points while also serving as a decoy from beyond the arc.
After Suns owner Mat Ishbia and coach Monty Willams joined the pursuit, G Terrence Ross plans to sign with the Phoenix Suns, sources tell ESPN. Ross, finalizing a contract buyout with the Magic, brings his 38% 3-point shooting to Suns' title pursuit. https://t.co/AKTjsrT0dP
Phoenix also has some guys who are capable of taking over Durant's spot in the starting lineup if needed. Torrey Craig could still play power forward in the starting five. He has started 45 games for the Suns this season and has done a decent job at holding his own.
The Suns are confident that their depth won't be much of a problem once Kevin Durant returns from injury. They'll have a bit of a logjam with the wing players, but that could be resolved by disregarding their positions on the floor.
Also read: When is Kevin Durant coming back from injury and when can he play his first game for Phoenix Suns? Latest update on the 13x All-Star's injury