Phoenix Suns: 3 Takeaways From Game 2 Victory vs Denver Nuggets

Phoenix Suns Game 2 Takeaways: Chris Paul back to 100%

Every one held their breath when Paul went down early during Phoenix’s first round series against the Lakers, with Paul himself surely enduring some injury-PTSD at the time, having harbored untimely injuries at a truely unfair rate thus far during his career. He returned the floor shortly after, but looked noticeably uneasy, often neglecting to pull the trigger on open shots and moving awkwardly around the hardwood.

This continued for the next two games, with Paul scoring six points during Game 2, and then seven the next. Between the two contests, he only attempted 13 field goals, with none coming from 3-point territory. The Suns lost both games, and most predicted an early exit for the Suns as a result.

With two days off though, Paul looked significantly better during a decisive Game 4, where he contributed with 18 points, nine assists, and hit 7-15 from the field. He continued to move better, shoot more often, and play more minutes as that series ended and this one began.

Last night though, it finally felt fair to say Paul has returned to normal. His incredibly 15-0 assist to turnover ratio certainly argued this, as did his teammates after the game.

Obviously a healed up Chris Paul bodes well for Phoenix, with his play and leadership for this team pushing his name into MVP conversations during the regular season’s closing days. Not only do the Suns no longer appear vulnerable, but they now seem more confident than ever, having proudly survived multiple games with their most reliable player limited by significant measures.

Now with that player back in his groove, the Suns must feel unstoppable, which comes as a impeccable mindset to take into Game 3…and beyond.