Phoenix Suns Throttle Trail Blazers: 3 Positive Takeaways From The Victory

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Dec 14, 2021; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard (0) drives to the basket against Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

Takeaways From Suns-Trail Blazers: Phoenix Suns’ Defense Overwhelmed Portland

As the saying goes, “Pressure can burst a pipe, or it can make diamonds”

In this case, the “pressure” would’ve been the Phoenix Suns defense who took advantage of last night’s Damian Lillard-less Portland team. Pressuring them into a whopping 19 turnovers which they converted into 22 points, dominating the Trail Blazers defensively.

Anfernee Simons got off to a good start, scoring 11 points in the first half before the Suns adjusted their defensive strategy — leaving him scoreless throughout the rest of the game.

The Suns also controlled the paint — posting 39 defensive rebounds to Portland’s 30. Javale McGee played a pivotal role in protecting the rim, recording four blocks and seven defensive rebounds off the bench.

https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1499250083027582979?s=20&t=43e1vnfCCGLc-8o04ENGWg

Being able to rely on their reserves to adjust and maintain the same defensive standard as their starters is something that the Suns will see pay off in the playoffs.

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