The 2022-23 NBA schedule has been released, with the Phoenix Suns facing a challenging opening period against their Conference rivals.
After losing three of their opening four games, the Phoenix Suns reeled off a franchise record 18 straight wins in the early part of the 2021-22 season. But they’ll face a tough task to begin in similar fashion next season, with the NBA schedule providing an early litmus test for the league’s best regular season team over the past two years.
The Suns will play five teams who made the playoffs last season, plus a number with rightfully renewed optimism heading into 2022-23. They won’t play an Eastern Conference team until their tenth game of the season, a trip to Philadelphia to play the 76ers on the 7th November.
Predicting the Suns’ record ten games into the season
Phoenix begin with an eagerly anticipated rematch at home against the Dallas Mavericks on October 18. Just like game seven of their second-round playoff series, the Suns will go in strong favourites against a Mavericks team who’s had a questionable offseason. Although Luka Doncic is always capable of an other-wordly performance, expect Phoenix to get one back over Dallas to begin the season.
The Suns then play two games away to the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers. Both games appear evenly-poised, with Portland buoyed by the return of superstar Damian Lillard and the offseason arrival of Jerami Grant. The same can be said for the Clippers who expect to have Kawhi Leonard back in the fold to partner Paul George on a deep and talented roster. A 1-1 split here may be the most likely result for the Suns.
Phoenix then play six straight home games, beginning with the NBA champion Golden State Warriors. They’ll also face the exciting New Orleans Pelicans who are looking to build off their trip to the playoffs, a rebuilding Houston Rockets, and a Minnesota Timberwolves team now armed with defensive stalwart Rudy Gobert.
The Suns will finish the home trip with another two games against Portland in what shapes to be an intriguing mini series to start the season. Phoenix should be hoping to win at least four, if not five or all six games in front of their home fans
Their opening ten-game period concludes with that aforementioned trip to Philadelphia, with the 76ers improved roster ready to challenge anyone as they remain in championship contention.
What should the Suns be hoping for? A conservative estimate may be a 6-4 start broken down into a win over the Mavericks, a split against the Clippers and Trailblazers, a 4-2 record on their home trip, and an away loss to the 76ers. However, optimistic Suns fans could rightfully see their team win eight of their opening ten games if things go to plan.