The Phoenix Suns’ struggles to overcome their lack of star power were on full display in a 115-110 loss to the Orlando Magic on Sunday. With Kevin Durant absent and other key players injured, the Suns failed to capitalize on their defensive prowess.
The Magic, despite missing Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner due to injuries, still managed to keep the game competitive with the help of Jalen Suggs, who scored or assisted all 16 of Orlando’s points across a crucial 4:10 stretch. The Suns’ supporting cast stepped up in Durant’s absence, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the team’s inability to create separation from their opponents.
The issue lies not only with the lack of star power but also with the team’s tendency to rely on physical play and defense to win games. However, when they’re forced to be the aggressors, teams that possess a strong identity tend to outmaneuver them.
The Suns’ poor performance in crunch time, where they were outplayed by Suggs and their supporting cast, raises concerns about the team’s overall depth and ability to succeed without Durant. The team is now 12-11 on the season and will face an important stretch ahead, with Durant’s return expected to bring a new level of scrutiny to the Suns’ performance.
Source: https://arizonasports.com/story/3566980/suns-glaring-room-to-grow-on-display-in-loss-to-depleted-magic