Skip to content

Booker upset Suns fired Watson, understands Bledsoe's position

Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports / Action Images

Despite entering just his third NBA season, Devin Booker has seen it all.

Most of it in the past 48 hours.

Following the worst start in league history, the Phoenix Suns sacked head coach Earl Watson and three members of his staff Sunday and made Jay Triano the interim replacement.

An hour before that news broke, Eric Bledsoe tweeted: "I don't wanna be here." He met with the team the following day and was sent home, with general manager Ryan McDonough admitting he's exploring trades for the point guard.

Related: Knicks, Bucks, Clippers among teams reportedly interested in Bledsoe

Booker is as surprised as anyone by the drama engulfing the team. The talented scorer, whom the Suns are committed to building around, was upset to learn Watson was canned following three games - all losses by a combined 92 points.

"As players, you can't blame two 40-point losses on the coach," the 20-year-old shooting guard said, according to AZCentral.com's Scott Bordow. "It comes with effort, love of the game, and we haven't shown that yet."

Asked why not, Booker replied, "Honestly, we're looking for the answers."

He believes the players supported Watson. McDonough suggested that wasn't enough, and the coach's downfall was his frayed relationship with management and ownership, in addition to the team's brutal start.

Related: Suns fan starts GoFundMe campaign to oust team owner

Booker also spoke on the imminent departure of his backcourt mate.

"Obviously, Bledsoe is a very good player," he said. "I can see both sides. At this point of his career, he wants to be on a winning team. Can't knock him for that."

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox