The Phoenix Suns have been focusing on improving their defense, an aspect of their game that hasn’t always been their strong suit this season. Led by coach Frank Vogel, who has a reputation for defensive expertise, the Suns have been working hard to shore up their defense, especially in the second half of the season.
In their last ten games, the Suns have significantly tightened up their defense, holding their opponents to just 89.4 points per 100 halfcourt possessions. This improvement puts them well above the league average and ranks them second in defensive rating during this period.
The turning point for the Suns came after a tough loss to the Clippers, where they were beaten by 27 points. Since then, the team has committed to playing harder and more focused defense. This renewed effort has paid off, with the Suns winning 16 of their last 22 games.
One key factor in the Suns’ defensive resurgence has been the stellar play of Kevin Durant. Known for his offensive prowess, Durant has stepped up his defensive game this season, showcasing impressive on-ball activity and versatility. He has been a vocal leader on defense, challenging his teammates to step up and communicate effectively on the court.
Durant’s presence on defense has been instrumental in the Suns’ success, as he has excelled in isolation defense and pick-and-roll scenarios. His ability to anticipate opponents’ moves and disrupt their offensive rhythm has been crucial for the Suns.
In addition to Durant’s contributions, the Suns have seen improved performances from other players, such as Royce O’Neale and Jusuf Nurkic. O’Neale has been impactful on the defensive end, while Nurkic has shown great effort and rebounding prowess.
The Suns have also benefitted from the emergence of Bol Bol, who has earned Vogel’s trust with his coachability and defensive abilities. Lineups featuring Durant and Bol have been particularly effective, posting impressive defensive ratings and effective field goal percentages.
With their recent defensive improvements, the Suns have won nine straight games at home and are optimistic about their chances heading into the final stretch of the season. While they face a tough remaining schedule, they are confident in their ability to compete and make a push for a higher playoff seed.
Ultimately, the Suns know that their success will depend on their ability to maintain their defensive intensity and capitalize on every opportunity to win games. With Vogel leading the way and players like Durant stepping up on defense, the Suns are primed to make some noise in the postseason.
