1 advantage the Phoenix Suns have over every Pacific Division team
By Luke Duffy
Golden State Warriors – Hunger & Being Proven Right
The Warriors have been the gold standard out West for nearly a decade now, and in that time they have taken on all challengers en route to four championships. Interestingly though, the Suns have an all-time 158-116 record over their more illustrious opponents.
They are far from the Warriors’ bogey team, and really there isn’t even much of a rivalry here to talk about. The Suns have an 11-4 record over the Warriors in the postseason — but incredibly — they haven’t met in the playoffs since 1994. A stat that may well continue beyond this coming season if the Suns have their way.
What the Suns have over the Warriors is a hunger to win a first ever championship. The Warriors with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green were once there themselves, and it is not like they won’t be trying to win another one to elevate their status as true legends of the game.
But they say you never forget your first, and that is exactly what Booker, Beal and Ayton are attempting to do. Linked to this is the departed Chris Paul, who was traded for Beal. He has ended up in San Francisco, and has that same desire to win what would be his first ever ring.
Ensuring the Warriors don’t go on a deep postseason run will be proof that the Suns cut ties with Paul at the perfect time. He did amazing things for the franchise, but a smart front office takes sentiment out of the game, and knows when it is time for a change. A younger Beal helping a hungry roster mop up wins in the Pacific Division gives the Suns the advantage here.