[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns, once seen as top NBA contenders, are now struggling in the 10th seed with a 14-12 record. Their challenges were highlighted in a narrow victory against the Wizards, winning 112-108 after overcoming a significant deficit. This follows a defeat where Jalen Brunson scored 50 points against them. Devin Booker spoke about the team’s difficulties, emphasizing the need for improved communication and homecourt defense, especially after the loss to New York on their own turf.
“The communication has to be there… You want to protect homecourt and New York came in here and kicked our ass on our home court and we were on our way to that after the 1st two-quarters tonight. We just got to get it together.”
Booker, despite a rough start, scored 27 points in the game against the Wizards, contributing to the Suns’ second-half comeback. The Wizards, led by Tyus Jones with 22 points and 11 assists, faltered in the fourth quarter due to poor shot choices from Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma.
The Suns’ defense was notably weak in their previous home game against New York, where Brunson scored 35 points in the second half alone, contributing to a 139-122 loss for Phoenix.
The Suns’ current roster reflects a significant investment in creating a superteam, sacrificing depth for star power in Booker and Kevin Durant. However, this strategy hasn’t paid off as expected.
The trade for Bradley Beal, which cost them Chris Paul and several draft picks, hasn’t yielded the desired results, with Beal’s limited play and underperformance due to injuries.
Despite contributions from players like Jordan Goodwin, Nassir Little, and Jusuf Nurkic, the team lacks consistent reliability.
Injuries to key players like Durant or Booker could severely impact their season. Facing trade restrictions, the Suns need to improve their standings soon to have a successful season.