The Phoenix Suns became the first team to thirty wins last night and are the top team in the NBA. It was certainly not their cleanest win of the season. However, this team just continues to find a way and stack up wins. The Suns were missing 7 players last night including Deandre Ayton, Jae Crowder, Javale McGee, and Landry Shamet. In addition to that, Devin Booker went only 5-22 from the field for 11 points. Yet this team always finds a way to win.
Coach Monty Williams was happy with the defense in holding the clippers to under 100 points. Coach Williams said, “The thing I was excited about, we didn’t allow missing shots to affect our defense.” Coach also loved the energy he saw from the team despite the road trip and dealing with coaches and players coming in and out of Health and Safety Protocols. “It’s a really good sign” Coach Williams said.
Led by their floor general, Chris Paul, the Suns turned a one possession game with 5 minutes left into a 17-point win. Chris orchestrated the offense as he always does while posting a career high of 14 rebounds and his 17th career triple double. Right by his side is the hottest shooter in the Association right now, Cam Johnson. Cam had a career high and team high with 24 points shooting 4-7 from three-point range. Jalen Smith also continued to impress with 19 point and 14 rebounds in his start at center.
Chris Paul was also happy with how the team played. He liked that how the team came together and how different guys stepped up. Chris did not seem surprised, stating “It’s what we’ve been doing the last year and a half.” Paul was also impressed by the play of Jalen Smith. He likes that Jalen is able to be out there and see how everything is working first-hand, not just from the bench.
You can see Chris Paul’s Highlights from last night at
The Suns are the first team in the NBA to thirty wins and have an overall record of 30-8. Keep in mind that last year this team was 8-8 to start the season. It is clear that this team is firing in all aspects of the game from shooting, to rebounding, to passing, and everything in between. It does not matter who is or is not available as the team just wins. Just about every team in the NBA is dealing with injuries and players in Health and Safety Protocols. Although, the Suns appear to be handling it better than other teams. It matters very little who has to step up as the culture of this team rises all boats.
This is the season everyone wants from the Suns. Mikal Bridges is one of the best defenders in the NBA. Devin Booker is playing his best defense and shooting the three ball the best in his career. Ayton is talking his next steps. Cam Johnson is becoming one of the best shooters in the NBA. Chris Paul is better than he has ever been. Plus, the depth issue at the big position has been resolved. This. Team. Can. Ball.
Of course, none of this really matters until the playoffs begin in April. However, there is no reason why this team should not make a run back to the Finals. They have been tested, gone through the heartbreak, and are stronger than ever. 38 games into the season and the Phoenix Suns are 30-8 and at the very top of the NBA. They are poised to keep stacking up wins and taking what they deserve come this June.