Suns Handle Business Against Pelicans, Reinforce Playoff Credentials
The Phoenix Suns took care of business Friday night, notching a solid win over the New Orleans Pelicans to move to 17-13 on the season. And while a victory over a team sitting at 8-24 might not jump off the page, this one spoke volumes about where the Suns are headed-and how they’re getting there.
Let’s be clear: this wasn’t just about beating a struggling team. It was about how the Suns did it, and what it says about their mindset right now.
Phoenix Isn’t Playing Down to the Competition
This time last year, the Suns might’ve let a game like this slip. The Pelicans, despite their record, came in showing signs of life-5-5 in their last 10, including a win over a Rockets team that took them lightly.
But this version of the Suns? They’re not making that mistake.
They’re not just showing up-they’re showing up with purpose, regardless of who’s on the other side. That’s the kind of maturity and focus that separates playoff teams from pretenders.
The Suns have already proven they can run with the league’s elite. They’ve logged wins over would-be contenders and shown flashes of a team that can make noise in the postseason.
But what’s just as important-maybe even more so-is that they’re taking care of the games they should win. That’s how you build a playoff resume.
Booker Back in Rhythm
Devin Booker looked every bit like the star he is, dropping 30 points and setting the tone on both ends. Against a Pelicans squad they’ll face again soon, Booker didn’t just score-he led. It’s the kind of performance that reminds you why he’s the heartbeat of this team.
And it wasn’t just the scoring. His late-game intensity, including a swipe attempt to deny a last-second Pelicans bucket, showed he’s locked in, even when the outcome is already decided.
That kind of edge matters. It sends a message-to his teammates, to the opponent, and to the rest of the league.
Dillon Brooks and the Role Players Stay Locked In
Dillon Brooks continues to make his case for All-Star consideration, and while he didn’t steal headlines in this one, his presence was felt. This team isn’t just leaning on stars-they’re getting contributions across the board. That’s what makes them dangerous.
Whether it’s Brooks, or someone like Kris Dunn stepping up when called upon, there’s a sense of collective accountability. They’re not waiting for someone else to do it. They’re doing it themselves, and that’s a big reason this team is trending upward.
A Favorable Stretch Ahead
With upcoming matchups against the Washington Wizards and a Cleveland Cavaliers team that’s been reeling, the Suns are in a position to stack wins. And if they keep playing like this-focused, disciplined, and unbothered by the opponent’s record-they may not even need the play-in tournament to punch their postseason ticket.
This stretch of games is where good teams separate themselves. The Suns are showing they’re not just playoff hopefuls-they’re playoff ready.
And as for Grayson Allen? He didn’t suit up again, and his absence is starting to feel more like a sign of things to come. The rotation is taking shape without him, and with the trade deadline not too far off, it wouldn’t be surprising if Phoenix explores moves to bolster what’s already becoming a tight-knit, playoff-caliber group.
Bottom line: the Suns are winning the games they’re supposed to, their stars are showing up, and the role players are doing their jobs. That’s a formula for more than just a playoff appearance-it’s a foundation for something bigger.