Last season, the Phoenix Suns run to the NBA Finals were embraced by so many.
To the delight of some NBA fans, it meant the Western Conference reps wouldn’t have LeBron James or Steph Curry on the roster. It was also pleased the fans who expect the NBA to be the NFL when it comes variance in who competes for a title. Unlike the NFL though, the best 4-out-7 format doesn’t allow a team to make the finals based on three good days. That’s what makes the NBA playoffs great.
It’s why, as hard as it is to believe, I don’t think the Suns’ run last season was truly appreciated by the casual fan. They weren’t the little engine that could, they were at team that was built to make long playoff runs.
If you needed more proof look at this season. The Suns lead the Western Conference by a comfortable 8 games and have been able to put together even when playing without Chris Paul and Devin Booker.
Last night it was Cameron Johnson’s turn to play hero. When the Suns chose Johnson at 11 in the 2019 NBA Draft. Self proclaimed NBA Draft experts cackled in amazement at the pick. But Johnson continues to have the last laugh. In last year’s NBA Finals who shot 43.5% from three.
And lets not even get into the criticism they took for drafting Deandre Ayton.
The biggest question for the Suns will be Paul’s health. That’s the question every year. Can Paul stay healthy throughout the playoffs?
They’re going to need him. A potential matchup against Milwaukee, Philadelphia, or Brooklyn would require Paul’s experience to navigate through a seven game series.
What Monty Williams and the Suns are doing in Phoenix is brilliant on so many levels. Understand who you are and how to build around that. Draft yet. Bring in the players. Keep the train moving.
