Devin Booker, the Phoenix Suns’ star shooting guard, has recently taken aim at the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx on social media, responding to what he perceived as mockery from both franchises regarding their respective playoff victories, which he dismissed with the comment second-round champs. This confrontation follows a notably disappointing playoff performance for the Suns and the Mercury, marking a stark contrast to Minnesota’s recent successes.
In late April, the Suns faced a shocking defeat as they were swept 4-0 in the first round of the NBA playoffs by the Timberwolves. This outcome was particularly unexpected given the Suns’ status as title contenders heading into the postseason. The Timberwolves’ series victory marked a significant milestone for the franchise, as it allowed them to advance to the conference finals for the first time since 2004, led by their rising star, Anthony Edwards.
Fast forward nearly five months, and the Lynx demonstrated their prowess by sweeping the Phoenix Mercury 2-0 in the first round of the WNBA playoffs. This success for the Lynx was celebrated on social media as both Minnesota teams collaborated on an Instagram post that appeared to gloat over their victories against Phoenix. The caption, “Tough year for Phoenix,” was perceived as an insensitive jab, prompting a swift reaction from Devin Booker.
In a pointed comment on the post, Booker dismissed the Minnesota teams’ celebrations, quipping, “Second-round champs.” This remark encapsulates the frustration and disappointment felt by the Suns star, as he rebuked the notion that early playoff victories warranted excessive celebration, especially when contrasted with his team’s recent struggles.
Devin Booker on IG: “Second Round Champs”This comment was under a collab post between the Timberwolves and Lynx. 🫣 pic.twitter.com/qK8kN175DF— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) September 26, 2024
Booker’s response highlights a broader narrative of competitive spirit within the league. While the Timberwolves celebrated their advancement, they ultimately fell to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals, concluding their playoff run with a 9-7 record. In stark contrast, the Suns’ playoff experience was limited to just four games, further fueling the fire of Booker’s criticisms and his remark about being second-round champs.
Kevin Garnett, the Timberwolves’ legendary player, recently weighed in on the situation, offering a more optimistic perspective on Booker’s future. On his show, “KG Certified,” Garnett predicted that Booker could rebound from the Suns’ disappointing playoff exit and emerge as a candidate for the 2025 MVP award. He emphasized that Booker’s experience competing with Team USA in the Paris Olympics could be instrumental in his development and performance in the upcoming season.
“[Phoenix] has two superstars that played this summer, that means something. That means they’re in rhythm,” Garnett stated, expressing confidence that Booker could rise to the occasion. The Hall of Famer noted that the Suns are likely to perform better than many anticipate, especially with a healthy and motivated Booker returning to the court.
Kevin Garnett on the Phoenix Suns:Paul Pierce: “What seed were they? 6?”Kevin Garnett: “Yup.. and that was so called terrible year for them.”Kevin Garnett: “Devin Booker can be an MVP, you know what i’m sayin. Beal he can be an MVP. These guys, they got it bro.” pic.twitter.com/viLQug6KLU— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) August 28, 2024
Booker has previously been a formidable force in the MVP conversation, notably finishing fourth in voting during the 2021-22 season, after leading the Suns to the NBA Finals. However, his recognition in the league has waned over the past two seasons. As he approaches his 28th birthday next month, Booker is at a pivotal moment in his career, entering what could be his prime years as he aims to prove that he is more than just a second-round champs player.
The comments from both Booker and Garnett underscore the competitive nature of the NBA and the importance of resilience. For Booker, the sting of the past season still lingers, particularly given the expectations that surrounded the Suns entering the playoffs. His retort serves as a reminder that in professional sports, every victory is hard-earned, and celebrating too early can lead to consequences, especially for those who consider themselves second-round champs.
The rivalry between Phoenix and Minnesota has taken on a new dimension as both franchises navigate their respective paths in the league. As the Suns regroup and focus on the upcoming season, Booker’s comments are a signal that he is determined to prove doubters wrong and reclaim his place among the NBA’s elite.
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