March was a rollercoaster for the Phoenix Suns, marked by a four-game winning streak followed by a five-game skid-their longest of the season. They wrapped up the month with an even 8-8 record, holding steady in seventh place in the Western Conference.
As the regular season winds down, Phoenix is likely to stay in that spot, though the Clippers or Trail Blazers could still shake things up. If the standings hold, the Suns will host a Play-In game for the first time in franchise history. Their focus now turns to the remaining games on their schedule.
Wrapping Up the Road Trip
The Suns faced off against Charlotte and Chicago in March, splitting the results with a 1-1 record. They handled Charlotte with a 111-99 victory but stumbled against the Bulls, losing a close one, 105-103, with shooting woes under 40% from the field. Charlotte’s young, sharpshooting squad poses a challenge, while Chicago, already eliminated, might seem like an easier matchup-though that wasn’t the case last month.
Final Home Stand
Phoenix will conclude their home schedule with games against two Texas teams. Notably, their clash with the Rockets marks Kevin Durant’s return to the Mortgage Matchup Center since his trade.
Durant’s stint with the Suns was a mixed bag-despite his stellar performance alongside Devin Booker, the team managed just one playoff series win. The crowd’s reaction to Durant in this nationally televised game will be something to watch.
Facing Playoff Rivals
The Suns will end the season against teams they’ve faced five times this year, thanks to the In-Season Tournament. With potential playoff positions locked in, we might see some key players resting during these matchups against the Thunder and Lakers. The Thunder are the more likely first-round opponents.
If the Suns find themselves in the 7/8 Play-In game and win, they’ll clinch the seventh seed. A loss means they’ll host the winner of the 9/10 game, with a victory securing the eighth seed and a loss ending their season.
Mark your calendars-the NBA Playoffs tip off on April 18th.