The Phoenix Suns weren’t supposed to be here-not after losing Kevin Durant in the offseason, not with a roster that looked like it might be headed for a full reset. And yet, here they are, sitting at 29-19 and right in the thick of the Western Conference playoff picture. They're currently seventh, but just a game or two separates them from the top six, with the Lakers, Timberwolves, and Rockets all within striking distance.
That’s a massive step forward for a team that didn’t even qualify for the play-in tournament last year. And while expectations were understandably tempered coming into this season, the Suns have flipped the script. Now, with the trade deadline looming on February 6, the question isn't whether Phoenix can compete-it's whether they should tinker with a good thing.
Team owner Mat Ishbia seems to have his answer. Speaking on a Suns podcast, Ishbia made it clear he’s not looking to shake things up.
“We love our team,” he said. “We’re building something bigger than how many wins we got.”
That’s not just lip service. Ishbia pointed to a culture-first approach, one rooted in toughness, rebounding, and effort-values he says come from his Michigan State background. “We’re gonna add a spin to it, the Suns way,” he added.
It’s a philosophy that might raise eyebrows around the league. Most teams hovering in the middle of the standings would be looking to make a splash-add a veteran, offload a contract, shift the rotation. But the Suns are leaning into continuity, and it’s hard to argue with the results so far.
Devin Booker remains the engine of this team, averaging 25.4 points per game and continuing to be the go-to guy in crunch time. But what’s really turned heads is the depth behind him.
Young players like Jalen Green, Collin Gillespie, and rookie Rasheer Fleming have stepped up in meaningful ways. They’re not just filling minutes-they’re making plays that win games.
And then there’s Dillon Brooks. Brought in during the offseason, Brooks has brought a veteran edge and defensive intensity that’s helped shape the Suns’ identity. He’s not just barking-he’s backing it up, and the younger guys are following his lead.
“I don’t think we’re a big mover,” Ishbia reiterated. “Our team is very competitive right now.
We like the vibes, energy… I got seven guys that are 24 and under that are actually playing, actually making an impact. So, we’re excited about the growth.”
That blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy has created something Phoenix hasn’t had in a while: balance. They’re not leaning too heavily on one star, and they’re not asking the kids to carry more than they can handle. It’s been a collective effort, and it’s working.
So while the Suns may not be the loudest team at the deadline, they might be one of the most intriguing. They’ve got momentum, chemistry, and a clear vision from the top. And if they can keep this trajectory going, they could be a team nobody wants to face come playoff time-whether they get in through the play-in or not.