The Phoenix Suns are shaking up their strategy as they prepare to face off against the Philadelphia 76ers, opting for a fresh look in their starting lineup. Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic, two of the team’s high-profile players, will begin the game from the bench, introducing a new dynamic for the Suns' roster.
Bradley Beal, known for his consistent presence in the starting five, hasn't come off the bench since the 2015-16 season. Over his career, Beal has been a starter in 95.6% of his games, making this recent change particularly notable. Despite the shift, Beal has been delivering solid performances, averaging 17.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game this season.
Joining Beal on the bench is Jusuf Nurkic, back after serving a three-game suspension. The Bosnian center, in the third year of a four-year, $70 million contract, is reportedly a potential trade candidate before the February 6 trade deadline. Nurkic has been stretching the floor more this season, attempting 4.8 three-pointers per 100 possessions, though his success rate currently sits at 30.4%.
New Starters: Opportunity for Change
In place of Beal and Nurkic, Ryan Dunn and Mason Plumlee will take up the starting roles against the 76ers. This alteration presents a chance for the Suns to reset during a challenging phase of the season. Currently ranked 12th in the Western Conference with a 15-18 record, the team is in the midst of a slump, having lost four consecutive games and seven of their last eight. This follows a strong start to the season, where they boasted an 8-1 record.
The team’s defensive struggles are clear, as they rank 24th in overall defense and 28th in half-court defense. The Suns' typical starting lineup has been porous, allowing 122.3 points per 100 possessions and being outscored by 17.7 points per 100 possessions. Head Coach Mike Budenholzer emphasized the need for an improved defensive performance, stating, "We gotta be better at [the defensive] end of the court, give ourselves to get out and play."
Looking Forward: A Crucial Stretch
With a favorable schedule on the horizon, the Suns have an opportunity to regain their footing. In their next 11 games, only one opponent has a winning record, providing a ripe opportunity for Phoenix to climb the standings. The team’s current position necessitates significant improvement if they aim to advance in the competitive Western Conference.
The benching of Beal and Nurkic, while a surprising move, signals strategic adaptability from the Suns' coaching staff, potentially setting the stage for a rejuvenated squad performance. As they prepare to face off against a tough opponent in Philadelphia, the Suns' ability to adjust and rally will be tested. The upcoming games will reveal whether these changes can breathe new life into a team eager to rediscover early season success.