The Phoenix Suns’ journey through the current NBA season has been nothing short of thrilling for their fans. A series of heart-stopping finishes and significant comebacks have transformed the Suns from last year’s lackluster fourth-quarter performers to this season’s clutch kings.
An Impressive Turnaround
Last season, the Suns consistently languished in pivotal fourth-quarter moments, getting outscored by an average of 2.4 points in the final stretches. Their inability to deliver in clutch situations saw them faltering by 5.5 points per 100 possessions. But the Suns have dramatically reversed their fortunes this year, boosting their fourth-quarter net rating from a dismal minus-5.5 to a promising plus-3.5. With a league-leading six clutch victories, Phoenix has established itself as a formidable contender when the game hangs in the balance.
Durant’s Impact
Central to this turnaround is Kevin Durant, whose performance in clutch scenarios has been nothing short of stellar. Durant has racked up 29 clutch points this season, showcasing his prowess by converting 10 of his 11 two-point attempts and maintaining an unblemished record from the stripe, going 9 for 9 on free throws. As Durant succinctly put it, “We've been in a lot of tight, close games. I'm sure Suns fans are on edge every game, but I think it's good for our team that we can play these fourth-quarter games and get an understanding for what it’s like in crunch time.” His influence is undeniable, further emphasized by teammate Devin Booker’s admiration: "But in the end, Durant, as Booker said after the Miami win, is a mother----er to deal with."
Memorable Comebacks
This season, the Suns have etched several memorable comebacks into the annals of their history. On opening night, they faced a nine-point deficit against the Los Angeles Clippers with just four minutes on the clock, managing to force an overtime that ultimately led to victory. A similar narrative unfolded when they overturned an 18-point deficit against the Lakers and clawed back a 21-point deficit to beat the Clippers by six. In a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, a substantial 26-point lead withered down to a mere two-point cushion, yet the Suns dug deep to secure the win.
The Team's Strong Supporting Cast
While Durant has been the tip of the spear, the Suns' success is also a testament to their robust supporting cast. Bradley Beal’s role as a third option adds depth to an already potent lineup. Rookie Ryan Dunn has been making his presence felt, marking a promising start to his career. Royce O'Neale's sharpshooting, with an impressive 47% from beyond the arc, has become an indispensable asset. Jusuf Nurkic offers consistency with his double-double averages, while anchoring the team’s defensive efforts that now rank within the league's top ten.
The Suns appear to be a team transformed. Their resilience in the face of adversity and their demonstrated ability to capitalize on clutch moments make them a team to be feared. As they continue to build on their strong foundation, Phoenix fans might expect more of these nail-biting finishes — now with a hopeful outcome. And while the season is still young, the Suns have sent a clear message to their rivals: underestimate them at your peril.