Are the Phoenix Suns in trouble? Their recent slide has fans wondering if it's a blip or a sign of deeper issues. The team, currently at 15-13, isn't living up to expectations, and the reasons are complex.
The Suns have been facing a tough schedule, compounded by persistent injuries. They've lost seven of their last 11 games, with a 7-8 record since the schedule's intensity peaked on November 16th. While some losses were against strong teams like Houston and Oklahoma City, the underlying patterns are concerning.
Several statistical trends suggest a regression is underway. Before November 16th, the Suns were winning in the margins. Now, things are different.
Since then, they're second-worst in the NBA in opposing turnover rate and 10th in offensive rebounding percentage. However, the Suns are 26th in their own turnover percentage and giving up the fifth-worst offensive rebounding rate. This shift has taken away their edge in the possession battle.
Adding to the problems are free-throw woes, ranking 27th in free-throw rate and 23rd in opponent's free-throw rate.
Their hot three-point shooting at the start of the season has cooled off. Before the November 16th loss, they shot 41% on 39 attempts per game over nine games. In the last 15 games, they're down to 34% from deep, ranking 24th in the league, with 36.7 attempts. This has led to a 28th ranking in offense during this period.
The Suns also rank 28th in rim frequency. They've relied on efficiency and defense, but their mid-range game is only at a solid 45.2% (ninth overall), and their defense has slipped to 12th.
The return of Jalen Green could help, providing more shots at the rim and another mid-range threat. Currently, Devin Booker (55% of his shots) and Dillon Brooks (47%) are carrying the load.
Grayson Allen's absence in 10 of the last 15 games has also hurt their three-point shooting and overall offensive flow. Green's six-week reevaluation ends Tuesday. Allen is dealing with a knee issue, but it's not considered serious.
The schedule is about to ease up, but perhaps not as much as expected. Following Tuesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers, they face teams like New Orleans, Washington, and Sacramento. However, New Orleans has won four straight. The next month includes more matchups with the Rockets and Thunder, plus games against the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons.
But here's where it gets controversial... the upcoming road trips. The Suns face a grueling stretch of 12 out of 16 games on the road after Tuesday's game.
After that, they'll be home for 16 of their next 19 contests starting January 25th.
What do you think? Are the Suns' struggles due to the schedule, injuries, or something else? Will they bounce back, or are they facing a more significant problem? Share your thoughts in the comments!
