Three Changes Phoenix Suns Need to Make to Resuscitate Their Season

The Phoenix Suns, after an impressive run to the NBA Finals in 2021 and a league-best 64-18 record in 2022-23, are facing an unexpected and disappointing season in 2023-24, currently sitting at 31-28 and 10th in the Western Conference. To salvage their season and pursue another championship run, the Suns must address several key issues:

1. Improve Defensive Intensity and Communication

The Suns' defense has regressed significantly this season, ranking 18th in the league in defensive rating. They have struggled to contain opposing teams in the paint, allowing a staggering 52.1 points per game in the restricted area (worst in the NBA).

Data Point: In the 2021-22 season, the Suns held opponents to a league-best 42.3% shooting percentage at the rim. This season, that number has jumped to 60.4%, the highest in the league.

This defensive decline can be attributed to a lack of intensity, effort, and communication. The Suns often seem disengaged on the defensive end, allowing opponents to penetrate the paint at will and create easy scoring opportunities.

Real-Life Example: In their recent loss to the Golden State Warriors, the Suns allowed Stephen Curry to score 50 points on 20-of-38 shooting, including 10-of-24 from three-point range. Curry repeatedly found open looks due to poor close-outs and defensive rotations by the Suns.

2. Reinstate Consistent Three-Point Shooting

The Suns have also struggled to shoot the ball consistently from beyond the arc, ranking 24th in the league in three-point shooting percentage (34.2%). This is a significant departure from their previous dominance, as they led the NBA in three-point shooting in both 2020-21 and 2021-22.

Data Point: Last season, the Suns ranked first in the NBA in three-point attempts and makes. This season, their three-point attempts have dropped to 10th in the league, while their makes have plummeted to 16th.

This decline in shooting can be attributed to several factors, including injuries to key shooters like Devin Booker and Chris Paul, as well as a lack of rhythm and confidence in the team's offense.

Real-Life Example: In their recent loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, the Suns shot a dismal 10-of-42 from three-point range (23.8%). The lack of outside shooting allowed the Grizzlies to pack the paint and make it difficult for the Suns to score in any other way.

3. Find a Solid Backup Point Guard

The Suns have been heavily reliant on Chris Paul, who is now 38 years old and injury-prone. In his absence, the team has struggled to find a reliable backup point guard who can provide consistent playmaking and leadership.

Data Point: In the games that Paul has missed this season, the Suns have a record of 3-7. Replacements like Cameron Payne and Saben Lee have struggled to fill Paul's shoes, often leading to disjointed offense and poor decision-making.

Finding a solid backup point guard would allow the Suns to rest Paul more, preserving his health for the playoffs, while also providing a safety net in case of injury.

Real-Life Example: In their recent loss to the Denver Nuggets, Payne started in place of the injured Paul and had a disastrous performance, committing seven turnovers and shooting 3-of-12 from the field. A more reliable backup could have helped the Suns avoid this costly loss.

Conclusion

The Phoenix Suns have a talented roster but are currently underperforming. By improving their defensive intensity and communication, reinstating consistent three-point shooting, and finding a solid backup point guard, the Suns can turn their season around and reclaim their status as contenders.

These changes will not be easy, but they are necessary for the Suns to reach their full potential and make a deep playoff run. With Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton leading the way, the Suns have the talent and experience to compete with any team in the league.

Time is running out for the Suns to make these changes. The playoffs are just around the corner, and the Suns need to find a way to turn things around quickly if they want to avoid another disappointing postseason exit.