One NBA executive joked about Suns owner Mat Ishbia having a new rule made for him with the Kevin Durant trade possibly backfiring.

The Suns got 99 of their 125 points from combined efforts of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and new center Nick Richards.

Book has had everything handed to him since James Jones arrived. Promising new rookies. (Josh Jackson, Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson). All-time great veterans (Chris Paul, Durant and Beal). New coaches (Monty Williams, Frank Vogel and Mike Budenholzer). The franchise has even upgraded the locker room and practice facility.

Devin Booker is the only Suns player remaining from the finals team, but Durant is all for Ishbia’s constant push for an NBA title, something that has eluded the franchise that had its inaugural season back in 1968-69.

Kevin Durant for Alperen Sengun ... Promising new rookies. (Josh Jackson, Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson). All-time great veterans (Chris Paul, Durant and Beal).

The Suns traded Josh Okogie and three future second-round picks Wednesday for Richards and a second-round selection. Wearing No. 2, Richards joined the Suns (20-20) Friday in Detroit and was ready to make his debut Saturday against the Pistons (21-20) at Little Caesars Arena.

Jimmy Butler continues to loom large over the NBA trade deadline. Here is the latest intel and rumors surrounding possible deals.

The Arizona Wildcats melted another 18 points off a big lead Tuesday, but this time it was somewhat different.

The Cavaliers returned to earning W’s, beating the Pacers 127-117. The victory ends Indiana’s six-game win streak and avenges Cleveland’s loss to them on Sunday. The win puts Donovan Mitchell and Co. back on the right track to set the stage for a showdown Thursday against the West-leading Thunder.

PHOENIX — Devin Booker stood at his locker late Sunday night. The Phoenix Suns had just beaten the Charlotte Hornets on their home court, hardly a reason for celebration. But the effort had given the struggling Suns their third win in a row and their fourth in five games since coach Mike Budenholzer altered the lineup.

With two older brothers in pro basketball, Martray Bagley is getting his high school career off to strong start playing for his dad on new CAA team.

The Hawks are on a 3-game winning streak. The Hawks are 2-0 (!) in Boston this season. Huge games from Trae Young (28 points, 12 assists) and Onyeka Okongwu (19 points, 13 rebounds)