Three things the Phoenix Suns hope to figure out in preseason game 3
The preseason is for figuring stuff out. For the Phoenix Suns, they have many things to figure out heading into game 3 against the Portland Trail Blazers.
The Phoenix Suns take on the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday in their third preseason game. However, because it is preseason, the opponent doesn’t much matter. This is all about the Suns figuring out things about themselves.
Here are three things they hope to figure out:
Figuring out the 10-man rotation
Monty Williams said he hopes to have a 10-man rotation solidified after the third preseason game, so the minutes he gives out could be telling as to who is gaining traction over others.
While players like Frank Kaminsky seem to be beating out other big men like Cheick Diallo at the moment, the battle for the backup point guard role has never been more heated.
Both Ty Jerome and Jevon Carter have been balling out thus far. After Jerome took a slight edge after game one, Carter came storming back with a tremendous game two. This horse race will be the most exciting competition to watch outside the Kentucky Derby as the Suns head down the preseason stretch.
Figuring out how to play in the “0.5” system
It is not just about who plays, but also how they play.
Monty Williams spoke in detail about this “0.5” system. The idea is players need to make up their mind to either shoot it, pass it, or drive it within a half second of getting the ball. He doesn’t want players to just hold it.
In theory, this should speed up the pace of play significantly.
In the mid-2000s, the Phoenix Suns featured the most exciting form of basketball in the league with Coach Mike D’Antoni’s seven-seconds-or-less mantra. Now, almost all teams play with that kind of fast-paced mindset.
The “0.5” system is Coach Williams’ version of the modern NBA. It will take players a while to get used to it, but when they do, it could produce some very compelling basketball.
Look for players to make quicker decisions once they get the ball against Portland in game three.
Figuring out Tyler Johnson
It will also be interesting to see what happens with Tyler Johnson. After putting up a stinker in game one, the second highest player on the team sat out game two with a migraine.
Suns fans shouldn’t overreact to preseason games, but heading into game three, everyone hopes Johnson finds his groove and shows signs he might be worth at least half his salary.
Next. Suns draft two players well, decide to keep them longer. dark
After a free broadcast or stream not being readily available last game, the Phoenix Suns will play on NBA TV against the Trail Blazers at 5 p.m. Saturday night. With many more eyes watching, the Suns have a chance to make a statement with more than just their jerseys.