In a recent interview with Arizona Sports' Bickley & Marotta, former Phoenix Suns star Charles Barkley placed the blame for the team's playoff exit squarely on the players' shoulders. As the Suns contemplate roster changes and evaluate the future of coach Frank Vogel, Barkley emphasized the importance of player ownership and leadership.

Barkley drew parallels to the situation with the Los Angeles Lakers, where Vogel was fired despite leading the team to a championship. He highlighted the failure to address the Suns' ongoing point guard dilemma as a key issue that needs to be resolved. Barkley also noted the need for a backup big man and an energy big with shooting skills.

His observations proved prescient as the Minnesota Timberwolves employed full-court pressure to disrupt the Suns' offensive flow. The absence of a true point guard became apparent as Devin Booker and Bradley Beal were forced to initiate plays under pressure, leading to rushed possessions. The Timberwolves also effectively neutralized Suns center Jusuf Nurkic, prompting Vogel to experiment with smaller lineups.

Barkley stressed the necessity of making strategic moves in the offseason, asserting that everything should be on the table except trading Booker. While he acknowledged the value of bookending the rumors surrounding Booker's desire to play for the New York Knicks, Barkley dismissed it as part of the ongoing speculation propagated by First Take's Stephen A. Smith.

Regarding Booker's rumored interest, Barkley playfully dismissed Smith's history of linking various star players to the Knicks, adding that Smith's ultimate goal is to see the Knicks win a championship. He urged fans to ignore the speculation surrounding Booker's future.

Barkley's comments shed light on the Suns' lack of joy and public demeanor. He also took the opportunity to express his disappointment with Kevin Durant's seemingly perpetual state of dissatisfaction. Barkley highlighted Durant's career trajectory, from Oklahoma City to the Golden State Warriors and then the Brooklyn Nets, suggesting that the superstar forward may never find true happiness.

As the Suns enter the offseason, they face tough decisions regarding the roster and coaching staff. Barkley's words serve as a reminder that the players must shoulder their share of responsibility, but the front office must also make strategic moves to address their crucial areas of weakness. Ultimately, the team's future success will depend on the ability to learn from this playoff exit and make necessary changes.