Introduction
When Mat Ishbia orchestrated the trade that brought Kevin Durant to Phoenix only a few hours after acquiring the Suns, he envisioned a future filled with championship glory. Fast forward 28 months, and following a rocky journey that saw three head coaches dismissed and only one playoff series victory, the Suns sent Durant to the Rockets, finding themselves in a state of disarray.
Current Challenges
The franchise now faces a bleak outlook, compounded by the aftermath of an ill-fated era that involved acquiring Bradley Beal and incurring over $200 million in luxury tax payments. The deal for Durant, along with Beal’s trade, has left the Suns without control of their first-round draft picks for the next seven years. Additionally, using a salary cap stretch provision on Beal means the team will face a fixed cap hit of $19.4 million through 2030, making a return to contention seem challenging.
Unexpected Success
Despite these issues, the Suns have managed to start the season with some unexpected success, winning three consecutive games and eight out of their last nine. They currently hold an 11-6 record, trailing the Rockets, led by Durant, by just half a game in the Western Conference standings. This performance stands in stark contrast to pre-season expectations, as the franchise implemented significant changes, bringing in new management and coaches while reshaping their roster.
New Identity and Style of Play
Ishbia acknowledged the need for a fresh approach at the start of the season, stating they wanted to establish a strong identity and a team that fans could be proud of and enjoy watching. Under head coach Jordan Ott, the Suns have embraced a scrappy, aggressive style of play, focusing on relentless defense. They have adopted a full-court press strategy, increasing their use of pressure from just 1.5% of defensive possessions last season to 5.8% this season.
Key Contributors
Guard Collin Gillespie has emerged as a valuable contributor, showcasing his versatility while playing tough defense and contributing offensively as well. The team’s overall defensive intensity has intensified, resulting in a significant improvement in points allowed per possession, jumping from 27th last season to 8th currently. They lead the league in steals per game and are working hard to force turnovers.
Offensive Adaptations
Offensively, they have adapted their game plan, emphasizing fast breaks and pressing the pace. With Booker at the helm, the team is producing at a higher level, scoring efficiently and ranking among the top teams in the NBA for points scored off turnovers.
Conclusion
While the schedule ahead is challenging, the progress being made reflects a significant turnaround for a franchise that seemed adrift. The initial weeks of this season offer a renewed sense of hope for the Suns, as they reshape their identity and begin to regain the trust of their fanbase. After weathering a rocky period, these changes signify a pivotal moment in the organization’s trajectory.
