The Phoenix Suns certainly don't have the Kansas City Chiefs' continuity. Their track record of recent success pales in comparison to that of the two-time defending Super Bowl champions, too.
But Phoenix definitely boasts the top-end talent that's made Kansas City an NFL juggernaut over the past half-decade.
Can Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal follow in the championship path this season already walked three times by Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Chris Jones?
We won't find out for sure until June, but Durant apparently plans on bringing that attitude to his team throughout the 2024-25 season regardless.
"I would say the Chiefs, 'cause we bringing that championship mentality every day, baby," he said on "Up & Adams" on Friday when asked which NFL team embodies the Suns.
Host Kay Adams playfully pushed back, noting that the Suns—dating all the way back to their inaugural 1968-69 season—have never won a championship.
Maybe the Buffalo Bills are a more apt comparison for Phoenix?
"See, nah," Durant said. "'Cause [the Bills are] known for getting there and just losing. I don't wanna be one of those guys, so I'd rather go with the champs, and just take on that mentality."
Durant is 36. There's no realistic hope of him leading a dynasty in Phoenix like Mahomes is in Kansas City.
But the Suns made several changes over the summer that indeed leave them better situated to compete toward the top of an absolutely loaded Western Conference this season.
Coach Mike Budenholzer stands to make a major difference on the sidelines, imbuing Phoenix with the ball and player movement and defensive structure it sorely lacked in 2023-24. Tyus Jones is an upgrade at point guard and represents a necessary stylistic shift offensively, while rookie forward Ryan Dunn looks like a steal in the late first round of the NBA draft.
The Suns tip off the regular season on Oct. 23 against the Los Angeles Clippers.
