5 Keys to Phoenix Suns’s Record Tying “No Loss” November

Phoenix Suns Key to No-Loss November: Dominating in Transition and Isolation 

Phoenix dominates in both isolation and transition not just defensively, but at the offensive end as well.

The Suns play at a surprisingly high tempo, ranking fourth in pace after ranking at 29th last year. Doing so has set the team up with easy and efficient opportunities in transition.

Phoenix produces 21.2 points per game on the break, which is seventh best league-wide, while ranking second in fast break points per possession. This relatively faster and transition-oriented style of play has partially factored toward Booker and Paul ranking first and second across the NBA in assist to pass percentage.

But even as the Suns run and gun in transition, their half-court offensive attack still operates well when called upon. The Suns rank fifth in isolation efficiency this season, carrying an unignorable ability to score at will.

However, Phoenix’s offense thrives primarily during clutch situations. NBA.com defines “clutch time” as a scenario where less than five points separate a game, also with five minutes to play. The Suns fell into 10 “clutch” games so far, logging a grand total of 30 clutch minutes.

Under all that, they own a 9-1 record, while boasting a league-high 52.9 net rating. This is largely thanks to Paul and Booker, who embody two of the game’s premier closers.