The Phoenix Suns secured a thrilling 114-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks last Friday, moving their record up to an impressive 8-1. However, it was a game with some heated moments, as leaked audio revealed Suns star Kevin Durant expressing his frustration with teammate Jusuf Nurkic.

Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkic (Image Credit: X/@legendz_nba)

Durant has never hesitated to push his teammates to stay sharp and make the right plays. Durant was heard passionately calling out Nurkic for missing a play in the leaked audio.

“We’re a f–ing team! Pass the f-ing ball to Royce; he’s wide open. Then you get frustrated and get a tech? Come on!” Durant said.

Durant’s intensity translated into a standout performance as he led the Suns with 26 points, five rebounds and four assists. Unfortunately, his efforts came at a cost, as he sustained a left calf strain during the game. The team announced that Durant would not play for at least two weeks as they monitored his recovery.

Despite the criticism, Nurkic contributed 15 points and ten rebounds to help secure the win. On the Mavericks’ side, Luka Doncic led all scorers with 30 points, while Kyrie Irving added 29 points, though it wasn’t enough to overcome the Suns.

Kevin Durant’s Injury Catches Tim MacMahon Off Guard

On a recent episode of The Hoops Collective podcast, NBA analyst Tim MacMahon expressed his surprise at Kevin Durant’s injury announcement. MacMahon added that he spoke to Durant after the game, and the star forward showed no signs of discomfort.

“I was stunned because he finished the game and hit some big shots in the fourth quarter. There was no indication; he might have rubbed his calf at one point. I talked to him after the game; he didn’t get extra treatment, and he didn’t have any wrap,” MacMahon said.

With Durant sidelined due to a left calf strain, the Phoenix Suns faced the Sacramento Kings on Sunday without their top player. In Durant’s absence, the Suns struggled and ultimately lost to the Kings, 118-127.