Phoenix was left unable to find a workable solution on a Durant trade, while fellow star Bradley Beal utilized his no-trade clause to full effect. As a result, the Suns couldn't make any midseason upgrades, and two of their biggest names knew the front office deemed them expendable.

A former NBA player recently named a key reason why Kevin Durant could remain with the Phoenix Suns in the offseason despite being in trade rumors.

The Suns started their off-season by firing first-year coach Mike Budenholzer. It's the first step in what could be a dramatic remodeling of the club.