The Phoenix Suns suffered yet another setback, losing 120-111 to the Indiana Pacers at the Footprint Center, bringing to light the team’s deepening struggles this season. Despite going in as six-point favorites, the Suns displayed a concerning lack of grit, intensity, and hustle, demonstrating issues fans have long feared.
From the start, it was evident the Suns were unable to match the Pacers’ energy. They were outworked, handing over easy buckets and wide-open three-pointers. Kevin Ray, during the broadcast, noted, "Typically, through 25 games, you know who a team is." His remark on the situation highlighted the Suns’ inability to establish their identity, particularly due to injury setbacks. "I disagree. That is their identity. Injury-prone," said the onlooker, discerning what’s placed on full display this season.
The game’s turning points came after Devin Booker exited late in the third quarter citing tightness in his left groin. Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer noted the uncertainty surrounding when Booker sustained the injury, emphasizing the importance of the moment for the team’s season. "He can't pinpoint the moment it happened but believes it occurred early in the third quarter," said Budenholzer.
Booker had been performing well before his departure, contributing 17 points and six assists before abruptly leaving the court. His absence was felt as the team struggled to compete against Indiana's fast-paced play. Kevin Durant, who led the Suns with 37 points, lamented Booker’s injury, stating, "That's unfortunate. Injuries can really disrupt the beauty of basketball." With this defeat, the Suns fell to 14-12 and continue to exhibit problems on both ends of the court.
The Pacers capitalized on the Suns’ deficiencies, shooting 39% from three-point range with 16 successful attempts out of 41 tries, marking their fourth-most makes this season. Suns observers noted the team’s defensive breakdowns, exacerbated by failure to adapt their strategies. On the contrary, the Pacers displayed collective effort and elevated defensive discipline, aspects the Suns lacked.
Pacers' coach Rick Carlisle credited his team’s recent practices, stating, "We needed those practices obviously. We're playing well after them." Those practices emphasized communication and defensive strategies which allowed the Pacers to hold the Suns to under 30 points across three quarters of the game.
The game served as a reminder of the Suns’ identity crisis. Despite having prolific talent, such as Booker, Durant, and Bradley Beal, the crew often appears devoid of focus, particularly under pressure. The popularity of the Suns’ ‘Big Three’ seems overshadowed by their inability to stay healthy, as evidenced by the frequent rotation of players due to injuries.
The Pacers operated with new-found confidence, outmaneuvering the Suns and demonstrating resilience. Following their last few games, they’ve managed to string together wins, with recent practices cultivating both talent and chemistry. "When you get [transition points] flowing, it’s hard to stop it," commented Pacers forward Obi Toppin.
Analyzing the performance from the game, the Pacers had seven players score in double figures, with Pascal Siakam leading the way with 25 points. The effective teamwork led to 30 assists and only nine turnovers. Carlisle noted, "The practice time the last two weeks has helped us. It’s helped us regain an edge defensively. Our full-court defense is more of a factor."
Meanwhile, the Suns need to reassess if their championship aspirations are still within reach. If the team doesn't address their performance issues, they risk missing the postseason altogether. The win-loss record when the 'Big Three' manage to play together currently stands at 8-3, illustrating what could be. Yet, the pitfall of injuries continues to raise concerns about their future.
Looking forward, the Suns will face the Detroit Pistons, followed by encounters with strong Western Conference teams including the Nuggets and defending champions, the Celtics. Each game poses significant challenges, especially without their star player getting the necessary attention and recovery.
The clash against the Pacers served as both wake-up call and warning sign—a chance to realize just how fragile their situation is. The Suns must connect as both teammates and players, or they risk relegation to mid-table without meeting expectations. Time is running low for adjustments, and the upcoming weeks could prove to be the turning point or distinguishing downfall.
What will it take to bring forth the urgency and commitment the Suns need? That’s the question rattling through the minds of fans and players alike as they look to mend their season through determination and grit.
