Game Preview
The Phoenix Suns have stumbled into a five-game losing skid, struggling mightily on both ends of the floor over their last five contests. During this stretch, they've surrendered a whopping 118.6 points per game while mustering just 105 points on a paltry 42.3% shooting from the field. Their three-point shooting has been particularly anemic, hovering around 33% over this span.
Compounding their woes, the Suns have been outrebounded and outworked, grabbing just 42 boards per game while turning the ball over 14 times. Their defensive intensity seems to have waned, with a mere 2.4 blocks per game over their last five outings. Overall, Phoenix has looked like a shell of the team that started the season strong, posting a 9-7 record and 56.3% win rate to this point.
Meanwhile, the visiting Brooklyn Nets have found their footing, riding a two-game win streak into this matchup. While their 8-10 season record is nothing to write home about, the Nets have shown promising signs over their last five games, winning three of five behind an efficient 47.7% shooting clip and a stellar 42.7% mark from long range. They've been sharing the ball well with 27.4 assists per game, and their defense has tightened up, limiting opponents to 113 points per contest during this stretch.
While the Suns may have the home-court advantage, their recent tailspin combined with Brooklyn's improved play could make this an uphill battle. If the Nets can maintain their balanced offensive attack and continue their stingy defensive efforts, they have a prime opportunity to extend their win streak against a reeling Phoenix squad. However, the Suns will undoubtedly be desperate to snap out of their funk, setting the stage for what could be a hard-fought, high-intensity battle.