The Phoenix Suns have returned home after splitting their two-game road trip in Los Angeles to kick off the season—an outcome that reflects the competition and their performance.
Their victory against the L.A. Clippers showcased the team’s potential, particularly highlighting one standout player, while the defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers exposed some of their flaws. At least the Suns are showing an early commitment to the style of play that head coach Mike Budenholzer envisions. Although it’s still early in the season, averaging 37.5 three-point attempts per game puts them just outside the top 10, which is about five attempts more than last season. However, a persistent issue remains.
The arrival of point guards Tyus Jones and Monte Morris was expected to bring structure and consistency to the Suns’ game for the full 48 minutes. They’ve performed their roles well, especially Jones as the starter, taking care of the ball, assisting teammates, and allowing stars Devin Booker and Bradley Beal to focus less on playmaking. It’s clear in retrospect that both players thrive when not forced to prioritize creating for others. Yet, the team still struggles with some avoidable mistakes.
"I just got to do whatever they need me to do."
Kevin Durant after 30-point night in Suns loss at Lakers as he played the 5 late.
On 3s, Suns took 37. Durant said they can "get at least 10 more up."
Felt like he could've shot "six to seven" 3s. Went 2-of-3. #Suns #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/hu1c8MMMw7
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) October 26, 2024
We can’t be too harsh on Kevin Durant—he’s certainly one of the all-time greats—but his foul on Anthony Davis during a 3-point play with 3:20 left in the game, while the Suns were down 109-102, epitomizes the team’s ongoing issues. It was an unnecessary challenge against a player who has a career shooting percentage of just 29.7% in that area, which ultimately helped the Lakers secure the win. Earlier in the game, the Suns held a commanding lead of 55-35 in the second quarter but then seemed to fall back into their old isolation-heavy patterns. What’s the point in having Jones’s impact if the team resorts to a “your turn, my turn” approach among their top players once they establish a lead?
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