The Phoenix Suns’ Unexpected Turnaround
The Phoenix Suns faced a tumultuous season after their high-profile trades for Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. Initially aiming for a championship, they only managed to clinch one playoff series win before facing a first-round sweep that left them in a tough spot, with limited options. Following a disappointing 36-win season, the team had to trade Durant and subsequently waived Beal, resulting in a hefty $19.4 million dead money commitment for the next five years. The Suns now grapple with a salary cap crisis and lack significant draft picks until at least 2032.
When I assessed the teams with the least favorable long-term prospects at the season’s start, I placed the Suns at No. 2 and questioned their decision to hold on to Devin Booker.
In hindsight, the Suns had a potential lifeline by trading Booker this summer to possibly regain some of those lost draft picks. Instead, he extended his contract, set to pay him $75 million starting in the 2028-29 season. Without first-round picks, their ability to build a competitive team around him in the West seems quite bleak.
Las Vegas also seemed skeptical about the Suns, estimating their season over-under at just 30.5 wins.
However, fast forward to the current season, and the Suns have defied expectations, boasting a record of 27 wins and 17 losses. If the season concluded today, they would secure a playoff berth in the West without needing a play-in game. What a shift from starting the year ranked 25th in my power rankings to now breaking into the top 10. They’ve become the league’s most pleasant surprise, giving fans something to cheer for amidst the uncertainty.
Successful Moves by the Suns
It seemed like the Suns had little leverage when they traded Durant during the offseason. After all, he was almost 37 years old, on an expiring contract, and everyone knew he was available. Yet, the Rockets managed to acquire KD without a bidding contest, which left many wondering why the Suns didn’t get more in return. I initially rated their trade a D; it felt off.
But, it turns out the Suns excelled in that trade, contributing to their surprising success this year and likely beyond. They checked all the boxes:
- They brought in veteran starter Dillon Brooks, enhancing both their three-point shooting and defensive intensity.
- They added promising young player Jaylen Green, who could thrive in this new environment, even though I question whether he’s adequately priced.
- They made a smart move in the draft by selecting Duke’s Carman Maruaha with the No. 10 pick, a player I had rated much higher.
These three additions provide immediate help, potential for the near future, and long-term benefits. However, Green has had injury issues, leading to Maruaha likely spending a year developing in the G League. Still, this means opportunities to strengthen the team down the road.
Coaching Changes Have Paid Off
Matt Ishbia aimed for a coach with championship experience when he took control of the Suns. After firing Monty Williams and struggling for a while, they chose Jordan Ott, who surprisingly had no head coaching experience and wasn’t a former player. His main claim to fame seems to be his Michigan State connection.
Ott has exceeded expectations, arguably making him a strong candidate for NBA Coach of the Year. His strategy has propelled the Suns’ defense from 28th to 4th this season, emphasizing role clarity and teamwork around Booker.
Effective Roster Adjustments
Collin Gillespie, an All-American at Villanova, went undrafted due to size concerns but has emerged as a fantastic find for the Suns. After a strong showing last season, they guaranteed his contract, and he has blossomed this year—ranking among the league’s best in various metrics and providing the team with a critical point guard solution.
Similarly, Jordan Goodwin, claimed after being waived by the Lakers, has become a defensive asset, ranking high in steals and pestering opponents effectively. His ability to shoot threes has also elevated his role significantly.
With solid contributions from players like Oso Ighodalo and Jamaree Bouyere, the Suns have revamped their roster to bolster their chances this season.
Innovative Strategies on Offense and Defense
The idea that aggressive offensive tactics compromise transition defense is outdated, and the Suns have set a new standard. They rank high in both offensive rebounding and limiting points against during fast breaks. This ability to exploit missed shots has them pursuing long rebounds, which has made their defensive efforts far more effective compared to the previous season.
Last year, they struggled defensively, but under Ott’s leadership, they’ve made leaps, transforming their defensive rating dramatically by focusing on steals, leading to a higher rate of transition opportunities and efficient scoring.
Despite opponents shooting a low percentage against them, it’s evident their physical defense could be wearing teams out, suggesting that it’s not merely luck that’s benefiting them.
While it seemed nearly impossible for the Suns to build around Booker, they’ve instead strengthened their defense and targeted role players who create additional scoring chances. Even in a year of inconsistent shooting from range, Booker has still managed to draw fouls and get to the line effectively.
Many of their decisions have paid off, like trading for Mark Williams for rim protection, retaining key players instead of making risky trades, and bringing in late draft prospects who don’t demand the ball but still positively impact the game. Booker remains at the center of their plans, contributing significantly despite a less-than-ideal shooting efficiency.
Future draft and salary cap constraints complicate their next steps. To advance, they will need to strategically unleash their younger talent while managing the roster without jeopardizing their newfound defensive success.
It’s clear I underestimated the Suns. They’ve shown that a mid-round playoff team can thrive even when building on limited resources. Their diligence in making the right moves has averted disaster and set them on a hopeful path forward.
