Let’s be honest, the Phoenix Suns look more like the Pre-Bubble Suns this season than the Western Conference Champions. The offense is clearly out of rhythm and the stifling defense that fans are accustomed to seems non-existent. Their solid performance against the Lakers on Saturday night got sandwiched by rough performances on opening night against the Nuggets and Saturday against the trailblazers. However, it is not time to hit the panic button in Phoenix.

There are several things for us to keep in mind. First, Devin Booker is coming off an Olympic run that lasted into August and just recently got cleared from the Covid list. Second, the Suns just played 3 games in 4 days, 2 on the road, and 2 against teams they eliminated in the playoffs last year. Although they defeated the Lakers on Friday, it is emotionally draining to play the Lakers and Nuggets with a target on your back. Third, this opening week is coming on the heels of Deandre Ayton not getting his Rookie Max Extension. Although I doubt the leadership in the locker room will allow this to be an issue all season, it had to be influencing the team this week. Finally, there are new pieces playing a big role on this team. This includes Javale McGee getting used to his back-up center role, Landry Shamet trying to get his shots up, and Elfrid Payton filling the Cam Payne role on Saturday night.

It is admittedly alarming that the Suns starting lineup has a +/- of -37 to start this season. One of the biggest assets for this team was supposed to be continuity of the core. Especially as other teams attempt to find their footing to start the season. This is where patience is most needed. This is the same starting lineup that got the Suns 2 wins away from a Championship. We know that this combo can work, they just need to hit their stride. It is not time for panic in Phoenix, but if this continues into late November or longer, then we can talk.