Suns Seek Fifth Consecutive Win Against Familiar Foes
The Phoenix Suns (19-13) are looking to extend their winning streak to five games this afternoon as they wrap up a four-game road trip against the Cleveland Cavaliers (18-16). The Suns have been on a roll, showcasing impressive performances on both ends of the court, evidenced by a remarkable 14.0 net rating during this stretch, ranking them second in the NBA. Their offensive prowess has been on full display, with a 123.4 offensive rating that places them fifth, while their defensive efforts have been equally commendable, holding opponents to a 109.4 defensive rating, good for third in the league.
Key Returns Boost Suns’ Lineup
As the Suns prepare for this crucial matchup, they welcome back two significant contributors. Center Mark Williams returns after serving a one-game suspension due to a fight during Saturday’s victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Additionally, forward Ryan Dunn is set to rejoin the lineup after missing the previous two games with a knee contusion. With these reinforcements, the Suns will field their most frequently used starting five:
Collin Gillespie
Devin Booker
Dillon Brooks
Royce O’Neale
Mark Williams
This starting unit has proven effective, boasting a 5-2 record when all members play together, setting the stage for a competitive clash against the Cavaliers.
Cavaliers’ Recent Performance
Cleveland enters this matchup as 6.5-point favorites, following a significant 113-101 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. In that game, the Cavaliers demonstrated their defensive capabilities, limiting the Spurs to under 40% shooting from the field and a dismal 25% from beyond the arc. Known for their high-scoring games, the Cavaliers will pose a challenge for the Suns, who will need to maintain their recent offensive momentum to keep pace.
Coaching Dynamics Take Center Stage
This game is particularly noteworthy for Suns head coach Jordan Ott, who faces his former team for the first time. Ott spent a season as an assistant under Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, who has played a vital role in his professional development. Ahead of the game, Ott expressed gratitude for Atkinson’s mentorship, citing him as the most influential figure in his coaching career.
Atkinson reciprocated the admiration, praising Ott’s growth and readiness for a head coaching role. “He just took a bigger step. Took on a bigger role with us,” Atkinson remarked. “He was my right-hand man for a while, and it doesn’t surprise me the success he’s having.” His comments underscore the hard-working culture Ott has instilled in the Suns, often regarded as the league’s hardest-working team.
With the stage set and the stakes high, today’s matchup tips off at 1:30 p.m. MST, as the Suns look to solidify their momentum and continue climbing the Western Conference standings.
