Stephen A. Smith Reveals His Belief In Kevin Durant This Season

Kevin Durant is the biggest name for the Phoenix Suns and his skills are unquestionable.

Despite that, Stephen A. Smith doesn’t expect a lot from Durant and the Suns this season.

On Thursday’s “First Take”, Smith called Durant “one of the greatest talents this game has ever seen” but added he is “lacking in inspiration.”

He said he doesn’t have the leadership skills needed for the Suns to achieve true greatness and doesn’t know how he could suddenly learn them.

“When you are that great…you should be able to be a better leader than he has shown,” Smith said.

.@stephenasmith doesn’t have “much” belief in the Suns with KD as their superstar 👀

“I don’t question the greatness nor commitment of Kevin Durant. … When you are that great … you should be able to be a better leader than he has shown.” pic.twitter.com/0DTd5Vxvfh

— First Take (@FirstTake) October 24, 2024

Smith said Durant isn’t able to draw the best out of his fellow players.

Unlike other superstars in the NBA, Durant cannot inspire his peers, which is a key feature that authentic leaders have.

The numbers speak for themselves and there is a very good chance he has another terrific season.

He scored 25 points and 7 rebounds during his team’s 116-113 overtime win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night.

The problem isn’t with his ability to score, Smith said.

Instead, it’s about how he guides the rest of his team.

This Suns have fallen short ever since Durant came to town and there are multiple reasons for that.

At times, they appear rudderless and without a true leader.

They have a new head coach, Mike Budenholzer, and he might help with that.

But some people, like Smith, are saying the team needs an on-court star who can fire everyone up, keep them on the same page, and help them reach new heights.

Sadly, Durant isn’t capable of that, according to Smith.

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