Eight Months of Change for the Phoenix Suns
This week marks eight months since Mat Ishbia, owner of the Phoenix Suns, elevated Brian Gregory to the role of general manager. The response, both nationally and locally, was predictable. After the unsuccessful “Big Three” phase, Ishbia’s standing was declining, and Gregory was known for his long tenure in college basketball but had minimal NBA experience.
Promising Outlook
As the organization transformed, Ishbia emphasized the need for a team that played in a manner that would delight fans, a statement reminiscent of a college coach. Gregory highlighted the necessity of alignment, raising questions about their direction.
Progress and Potential
However, it appears they do have a plan. While the Suns face significant challenges, including not owning their first-round draft pick for the next seven years, they’ve discovered a winning formula. This shift means expectations must be higher; simply making the playoffs is no longer sufficient.
Recent Victories
Phoenix improved to 20-14 with a 129-102 victory over the Sacramento Kings, a stark contrast to last season, where they didn’t reach 20 wins until January 16. The recent schedule has favored them, but they’ve also secured two victories each against the San Antonio Spurs, the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Los Angeles Lakers, showing they aren’t just a fluke.
Adapting to Challenges
Central to their success is not just what they’ve accomplished but how they achieved it. Key player Jalen Green has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury, and Grayson Allen has missed several games for various reasons but is expected to return soon. First-time head coach Jordan Ott has adapted, using multiple lineups and maximizing the potential of most players on the roster.
Unlikely Heroes
The Suns have shifted from relying solely on star power to winning through expanded roles for other players. Notable contributions have come from Dillon Brooks, whose scoring average has skyrocketed to 21.4 points. Both Allen and Jordan Goodwin are proving to be essential, with Goodwin recently showcasing his rebounding prowess.
Future Expectations
Even as Devin Booker has struggled, the team’s foundation remains strong. With the return of players like Green and Allen on the horizon, the Suns are in a prime position to raise their expectations. As Ott noted, understanding what works best for the group will be crucial moving forward. This growth has surprised many and points towards a promising future.
