Charles Barkley says Kevin Durant was ‘not a leader’ for Phoenix Suns

Charles Barkley stated on Arizona Sports that former Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant was never a leader during his tenure with the team. Barkley argued that Devin Booker stepped aside to let Durant lead, but Durant was uncomfortable in that role, leaving Phoenix without clear leadership during their time together. Despite high scoring power, their partnership never advanced past the second round of the NBA playoffs.

Burn City Sports reports that Barkley's comments also serve as a direct challenge for Booker to take full ownership of the franchise. Following Durant's departure from Phoenix, the writer argues that the Suns' upcoming era must unquestionably belong to Booker as both its premier player and vocal leader.