Kevin Durant is listed as OUT for the game against the Thunder due to a calf injury. His absence is significant for the Suns, impacting their performance and depth as they navigate the NBA Cup pool play.

Kevin Durant will be sidelined for the matchup against the Thunder, significantly impacting the Suns' offensive and defensive capabilities. His absence, along with Bradley Beal's, puts additional pressure on the remaining players to step up, particularly Devin Booker and Tyus Jones, as they seek to compensate for the loss of their star power.

Kevin Durant's team might not take it easy if facing a squad of rookies and sophomores in the proposed All-Star Game format. The competitive dynamic could shift, as pride might motivate established stars like Durant to play harder against younger players, contrasting with the more relaxed approach seen in recent games.

Kevin Durant's arrival in Golden State marked a pivotal moment in the franchise's history, contributing to their dominance during his tenure. The Warriors achieved historic success, winning championships and setting records, particularly during the 2015-16 season when they won an NBA-record 73 games. Even in Durant's final seasons with the team, they maintained a top-10 defensive unit, showcasing their ability to balance overwhelming offensive talent with solid defensive strategies. His impact helped solidify the Warriors as arguably the greatest team of all time, but his departure left a significant void as the franchise navigated a challenging transition period.

Kevin Durant will be absent for the Phoenix Suns in their upcoming matchup against the Thunder, which could impact the Suns' offensive and defensive strategies. His absence adds to the challenges Oklahoma City faces, as they navigate a game against a team with significant frontcourt size.