Devin Booker is taking charge as he is the most experienced on the team for the first time in his career.
After the Phoenix Suns went 36-46 last season and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the franchise made a move to revamp its roster by adding some young stars who can contribute huge figures.
Booker, fresh off signing a two-year $145 million extension, also stated that he has the responsibility to bring a championship to the team.
“I have unfinished business here,” Booker said, via The Athletic. “I know how much it would mean to this city and this organization. That’s my job as a leader. It’s my responsibility as a franchise player. I understand how much my voice amongst the younger team that we have now matters, so it’s my job to handle that.”
The 28-year-old superstar appears more mature this season, having stated that leadership would be his priority, given the presence of many young players on their roster compared to previous years.
“The leadership aspect is going to be more important than ever this year,” Booker said. “Realizing our roster, the age of our roster and the experience that I’ve had and what I’ve seen. I’m going to use my voice always … especially with this team now, for the growth of any young player.”
He offered no excuses as he took responsibility, although there were not many expectations from the fans for their young team.
“We know the expectations aren’t high,” Booker said. “They’re going to say we’re a young team, and that’s the perfect seat to be in. … We’ll continue to grow. I understand how much my voice, amongst the younger team that we have now, matters. It’s my job to handle that.” ‘
New chapter
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia believes this season marks a new chapter for the franchise, following the stints of Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton, as well as Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, all of whom fell short of winning their first title.
“We have a different type of roster this year,” Ishbia said. “We have an ascending roster, we have young players that are not yet to the level that they’re going to be… This is the beginning of a process.”
At the end of the day, Ishbia still trusts Booker as their prominent leader who will help them win their first franchise championship.
“Devin Booker is the franchise player,” Ishbia said. “It’s his team. It’s very clear. There’s no question about it.”
