Monty Williams: KD's approach, love for game will help Suns' younger players
Phoenix Suns bench boss Monty Williams is well aware of what Kevin Durant brings to the table, having previously coached him with the Oklahoma City Thunder and USA Basketball.
"I think it's more than a lift," Williams told reporters following Thursday's 116-107 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, including ESPN's Nick Friedell. "I think it's a jolt if that makes sense. Just because of not just who he is as a player but his love for the game.
"I think the guys are going to see something that they may not have seen before as far as his approach and how much he just loves to play basketball."
Chris Paul echoed that sentiment. The veteran guard believes that love for the game will help forge a bond with the Suns' younger players, as it did for him when he arrived in Phoenix via trade three years ago.
"It's one of the best players to ever play the game," Paul said. "Just to know how he approaches the game, his nickname's "Easy Money," just somebody who loves the game like that.
"I think that's what brought me and (Devin Booker) closer together because he just love to hoop. And KD, he just love to hoop. So I'm excited about the process of building this team."
Durant continues to play at an elite level in his mid-30s. The two-time Finals MVP is averaging 29.7 points on a career-high 55.9% shooting. His 59% mark from the mid-range ranks in the 98th percentile among big men, per Cleaning the Glass.
Despite Thursday's loss, the Suns hold a top-six seed in the West and have won seven of their past 10 contests.