Suns Impress in Denver Preseason Win: Team Depth Shines in 118-114 Victory
Phoenix Suns Surprise with Deep Bench Rotation, Outlast Nuggets
Starting Lineup Experimentation Fuels Early Success
In a surprising move for a preseason game, the Phoenix Suns opted for a deep bench rotation in their matchup against the Denver Nuggets. This unconventional approach proved to be successful, with the Suns exhibiting a strong sense of purpose from the opening tip-off.
The first quarter showcased the Suns’ commitment to team depth, as players capitalized on early three-point opportunities and showcased active defense and a fast-paced offense. The Suns held their own against the Nuggets’ starters, keeping the score relatively close.
Second Quarter Sees Suns Push the Tempo, Nuggets Respond
The second quarter saw the Suns delve even further into their bench, with Royce O’Neale taking a seat and TyTy Washington remaining on the court. The Nuggets, meanwhile, also turned to their reserves for extended minutes. Julian Strawther’s perimeter shooting gave the Nuggets a slight edge, but the Suns refused to back down.
Bol Bol’s timely baskets and the Suns’ continued pressure on the offensive end led to a 12-4 run, forcing a timeout from Nuggets head coach Michael Malone. Malone responded by re-inserting his starters, stabilizing the Nuggets’ lead heading into halftime.
Third Quarter: Composure and Former Nuggets Players Shine
The third quarter highlighted the Suns’ composure and effectiveness in their defensive strategies. Ryan Dunn and Royce O’Neale set the defensive tone, allowing the Suns to gain ground against the Nuggets’ bench. The quarter also saw notable performances from former Nuggets players:
- Monte Morris: Demonstrated impressive heads-up plays and ball-handling.
- Collin Gillespie: Delivered solid contributions with baskets and ball movement, further emphasizing the Suns’ depth.
- Bol Bol: Continued his strong performance, grabbing rebounds and adding to the team’s scoring output.
- Mason Plumlee: Provided a reliable presence in the paint, contributing to the team’s success.
The Suns’ use of former Nuggets players against their former team fueled speculation about a “death lineup,” suggesting that coach Mike Budenholzer had a plan in place to exploit the Nuggets’ weaknesses.
Fourth Quarter Dominance Secures Suns’ Victory
The Suns’ dominance continued into the fourth quarter. Ryan Dunn, a standout rookie, continued to make a strong defensive impact, while the offense remained consistent with set plays and high-volume three-point shooting.
Dunn’s performance culminated in a crucial three-pointer with 18 seconds remaining, securing the Suns’ victory. He finished the game with an impressive 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals.
Key Takeaways from the Suns’ Denver Triumph
The Suns’ preseason win in Denver was a positive sign for the team. Their success was built on a foundation of:
- Team Depth: The Suns showcased their ability to rely on multiple players and effectively integrate their bench into the game.
- Composure: The Suns remained calm and collected throughout the game, even when facing pressure from the Nuggets.
- Three-Point Shooting: The team’s high-volume three-point shooting proved to be a potent weapon. They attempted 50 threes, making 23 for a remarkable 46% shooting percentage.
With seven players out for the game, the Suns’ victory in Denver demonstrated their potential to be a formidable force this season. Their ability to rely on depth and execute effectively even with key players absent is a promising indicator of their potential for success.
This win should spark optimism for Suns fans as the regular season approaches. The team’s impressive performance, despite missing key players, suggests they are well-positioned for a strong season ahead.
For more analysis and updates on the Phoenix Suns, be sure to visit Bright Side Of The Sun, your go-to source for all things Suns basketball.
Fonte da Notícia: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/2024/10/13/24269471/game-recap-phoenix-suns-and-their-team-depth-strike-gold-in-denver-nuggets-win-118-114
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