Phoenix Suns Gain National Respect at Last
The Phoenix Suns have been making headlines recently as they struggle to find consistency without star player Devin Booker. In a recent game in Detroit, the Suns squandered a substantial 16-point lead, ultimately losing by three. This marks their fourth defeat in a row without Booker, who returned to the lineup just in time for a matchup against the New York Knicks.
Phoenix Suns Performance Analysis
Without Devin Booker, the Suns have faced significant challenges. They have struggled offensively, posting only 101.3 points per 100 possessions in the four games he missed. In contrast, their offensive output was 115.8 points per 100 possessions when he was on the court.
Recent Games and Opponent Overview
The Suns’ recent losses came against several strong defensive teams, including:
- Houston Rockets
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Detroit Pistons
All four of these opponents rank among the top nine defensively, complicating the Suns’ efforts in securing victories.
Return of Devin Booker
Booker made his return against the New York Knicks, who were without their key player, Jalen Brunson. In that matchup, the Suns demonstrated resilience by overcoming two separate 10-point deficits, showcasing the strength of their bench players.
Impressive Bench Performance
One notable aspect of the Suns’ game against the Knicks was their bench production. They played a crucial role in the victory, especially as the team struggled with their starting lineup. With players like Grayson Allen stepping up, the Suns have seen significant contributions off the bench.
The bench has managed to outscore opponents by an impressive 13.4 points per 100 possessions when both Jordan Goodwin and Oso Ighodaro are on the floor together. This performance has earned the Suns the distinction of having the league’s fifth-ranked bench overall.
Offensive Rebounding Improvement
While the Suns have experienced a dip in scoring compared to last season, they have made notable improvements in other areas. Their offensive rebounding percentage has jumped from 26.4% last season—where they ranked 26th—to an impressive 33.6%, placing them sixth in the league this season.
The Phoenix Suns are gradually gaining national respect as they navigate the season, particularly with their strong bench and rebounding efforts. As they continue to adjust without Booker, their ability to perform against tough opponents will be critical moving forward.
