Phoenix Suns’ Road to Glory: What stats say about 2023-24 Dream Team

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 25: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns gestures prior to game five of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs against the LA Clippers at Footprint Center on April 25, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 25: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns gestures prior to game five of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs against the LA Clippers at Footprint Center on April 25, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 22: Russell Westbrook of the LA Clippers drives to the basket between Devin Booker and Josh Okogie of the Phoenix Suns. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 22: Russell Westbrook of the LA Clippers drives to the basket between Devin Booker and Josh Okogie of the Phoenix Suns. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Lockdown Defense: More Than Just Ratings

On the defensive end, we’re looking solid. Booker, Okogie, and Durant have above-average defensive ratings. But let’s be real, the NBA isn’t just about ratings; it’s about matchups and game situations in the moment.

We’re going to face teams with versatile scorers and playmakers. How well can we switch on defense? Can we close out on 3-point shooters effectively?

These are the nitty-gritty details that can make or break a game, especially in the playoffs. Here the question is who on the team will fall under the top of the three point defensive efforts.

Fast and Furious: Where’s Our Transition Game?

Remember those exhilarating fast-break dunks and transition threes that get the crowd roaring? Well, we ranked last in transition offense last season. Yikes!

Without a traditional point guard, this stat might not improve. But come on, with athletes like Booker and Durant, we’ve got to get those fast-break points up. It’s not just about the highlight reels; it’s about easy scoring opportunities that can shift the momentum of a game.