Phoenix Suns: 3 Keys to Completing Sweep of Denver Nuggets in Game 4

Phoenix Suns Key to Game 4 Victory: Take Denver’s hardest punch well

Few things reek desperation more than a 3-0 deficit during the NBA playoffs. As Denver watches this series, and their season for that matter slip through their fingers, expect them to throw everything they have at Phoenix during Game 4.

Especially if the Nuggets hit their first few shots and establish even a minimal lead, the crowd will eat it up like juicy steak, perhaps either convincing themselves that a series comeback might be possible, or just relishing their first chance to actually stand up and cheer this entire series. Denver’s players will certainly feed off this, and pair it with their own determination to stay alive this postseason, allowing them to come at the Suns fast, aggressively, and with heart.

Avoiding this entire scenario obviously comes as Phoenix’s first objective, but expecting the Suns to avoid any momentum-tilting runs from Denver also feels a bit naive.

Instead, Phoenix just needs to roll with whatever frenzied attacks Denver throws their way and avoid getting flustered. Luckily for the Suns, almost no NBA player oozes leadership and poise more than Paul, who Phoenix might want to lean on if they find themselves discombobulated amidst the brewing storm soon to come.

Head coach Monty Williams needs to spend his timeouts wisely, potentially halting any Denver scoring outbursts, and make sure his players stay focused. Doing both these things very well thus far, Williams seems ready for this, but again, an elimination game’s desperation often invites the unexpected.

If the Suns manage to keep their opponents fans under control and discourage Denver’s players with timely runs especially during the second half, hopelessness might begin to settle, making the Nuggets as good as dead.