Suns Surge Amid Injury Challenges in the League
PHOENIX — In the unpredictable world of the NBA, teams often find themselves at the mercy of both their own performance and the condition of their opponents. The Phoenix Suns have been beneficiaries of a streak of fortunate injury circumstances as they navigate an early-season schedule. Over the last seven games, they have faced teams missing pivotal players, contributing to a commendable 9-6 start to their campaign.
A Series of Fortunate Encounters
The Suns have capitalized on these matchups, winning six of their last seven contests. Notably, their opponents have been hampered by injuries, with several key players sidelined:
November 6: 115-102 victory against the Clippers, missing James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
November 8: 114-103 win over the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard again absent.
November 10: 121-98 triumph over the Pelicans, with Zion Williamson and Jordan Poole out.
November 12: 123-114 win against the Mavericks, missing Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II.
November 13: 133-98 rout of the Pacers, with Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin unavailable.
November 16: 124-122 loss to the Hawks, missing Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis.
November 18: 127-110 victory over the Blazers, absent of Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant.
While some might discount the Suns’ success due to this favorable schedule, a closer look reveals a team that has embraced its challenges.
Resilience Amidst Injury Woes
Injuries are rampant across the league, and the Suns themselves have not been immune. Jalen Green has played just one full game so far, grappling with a right hamstring strain. Other starters, including Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams, and Grayson Allen, have also had their share of injuries. However, rather than using these setbacks as an excuse, Phoenix has shifted its focus inward, honing in on their identity as a cohesive unit.
The Suns have historically struggled with inconsistency, occasionally faltering against perceived lesser opponents. Yet this season, they have demonstrated an admirable resolve, winning despite adversity. Players like Brooks, Allen, and Royce O’Neale have stepped up, enjoying career-best performances as they seize the opportunities presented by Green’s absence.
The Road Ahead
Despite their recent success, the Suns face a daunting challenge ahead. They possess the toughest remaining schedule in the league, with a significant proportion of their upcoming games against teams with winning records. Currently, they find themselves in a precarious position, having played only four games against teams above .500, managing a 1-3 record in those contests.
As the Suns prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves (9-5) at home on Friday night, they must channel the momentum built during their recent stretch. The upcoming tests will be critical in solidifying their identity as a team. Presently, the Suns rank eighth in offensive rating (117.5) and 11th in defensive rating (112.6), reflecting a balanced approach that can be pivotal as they enter a challenging phase of the season.
With the specter of tougher competition looming, the Suns are looking to solidify their status and continue their ascent in the standings.
