Phoenix Suns vs Utah Jazz: The Suns are the More Versatile Offensive Team
Every team needs a “go to” scorer when its offensive system runs into a dry spell. Both Devin Booker and Donovan Mitchell fill that role for their respective teams, and do so incredibly well.
But all squads looking to evolve from just a great team into a championship contender cannot stand on just one pillar. You need someone to take the load off from time to time. For the Suns, they need to look no further than Paul, who stands fully capable of going out and getting a bucket at any time.
Across Utah’s starters though, they lack this 1B option. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert undoubtedly embodies their second star, but at the offensive end, he only operates as a specialist down low, unable to stretch the floor without a jump shot.
Jordan Clarkson knows how to create for himself, but he distinctly comes off the bench, therefore limiting his capabilities. If Quinn Snyder subs him into the starting five, that opens up a different conversation, but for now, he needs more opportunities to really take the load of Mitchell’s shoulders.
Although Mike Conley once drew attention as a shot creator, he has since fallen off. Last year, he averaged just 0.6 isolation points per game, becoming a non-factor as a self-scorer.
Meanwhile, Phoenix’s two-headed monster of a backcourt keeps things far more balanced. Although Booker stands responsible for most scoring, Paul often comes on as the team’s closer toward a game’s ending. This makes defending them a far more complicated task than with the Jazz, where you really just need to focus on Mitchell.
If Mitchell stays hot from start to finish, then the Jazz might snag a game or two from the Suns this year. He’s been able to do that before, so totally ruling out any Utah victories feels foolish. But regardless, Phoenix’s more evened out offensive firepower just makes them a better bet to win more games this season, and head-to-head contests.