Phoenix Suns: 5 midseason thoughts

Compared to most other projected playoff teams, the Suns feature more traditional lineups.

That is to say that the Suns do not have as much flexibility as other teams to adapt to different opponents or playstyles. The starting unit of Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder, and Deandre Ayton features players that mostly fit into a defined role on the floor.

Paul controls the tempo and distribution, Booker is the release valve of the offense, Bridges defends and cuts off-ball, Crowder brings toughness and spaces the floor, and Ayton defends the rim and controls the paint. That starting lineup has been outscored by 6.4 points per 100 possessions in over 270 minutes of game time, according to basketball-reference.com. That number should certainly be a point of concern. The Suns are winning games though, which points to their solid depth and reserves.

It will be interesting to see what happens in the playoffs if the Suns run into a team that attempts to play small with a stretch five that stretches Ayton out to the perimeter or a team with larger wings that try to hunt the matchup against the smaller Paul. Coach Monty Williams has had to integrate a lot of new players into the team and system this year, which is a task that has definitely been made more difficult due to COVID protocols. The regular season is the best time to experiment though so it is up to Williams to make sure the team is prepared to see and give some different looks as needed.