With the Phoenix Suns wrapping up a quieter week, playing only two games, it was a welcome breather after a grueling five games in seven days stretch. They split their matchups, falling to the Nuggets but bouncing back with a win against the Jazz. While March Madness captured the spotlight, the Suns quietly navigated their schedule.
Fending Off the Clippers
The Suns find themselves in a tight race with the Los Angeles Clippers, who have been on a tear with a five-game win streak. The Clippers are just 2.5 games behind Phoenix for the 7th spot in the standings. Both teams have split their season series, but Phoenix holds the edge with a better division record, which could be crucial if they end up tied.
Since shaking off a rough 6-21 start, the Clippers have transformed into one of the league’s hottest teams, posting a 33-15 record over their last 48 games. That's the fourth-best in the league during that span. Whether they overtake the Suns or not, a showdown in the play-in tournament seems likely.
How do you feel about facing the Clippers in the play-in? Can they catch the Suns in the standings?
Brooks and Williams Eye Returns
Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams are nearing their returns from injury, with both participating in full 5-on-5 practices over the weekend. Coach Jordan Ott expressed optimism, stating that “everything is headed in the right direction.”
Williams has been sidelined since March 3rd, while Brooks hasn’t played since February 21st. Williams is expected to reclaim his starting center spot from Oso Ighodaro, and Brooks will likely replace Royce O’Neale.
How should Coach Ott manage their returns? What adjustments might we see in the rotations?
The Final Stretch
With just eight games left in the regular season, the Suns are entering the home stretch. They’ve been 4-6 over their last ten games and recently endured their longest losing streak of the season. With a record of 24-15 at home and 17-18 on the road, they have the opportunity to balance those numbers with six road games and two home contests remaining.
This week, Phoenix gears up for a busier schedule, starting with the Grizzlies tonight, followed by the Magic, Hornets, and Bulls. It’s crunch time for the Suns as they look to solidify their playoff positioning.