Phoenix Suns: How far can this team possibly go in the Orlando Restart?

Being realistic

Wrapping it up, we need to be realistic with this young Phoenix Suns squad. They have a fair amount of issues that need buffing out for them to stand a legitimate chance in the Orlando restart. Some of these issues can be fixed in a matter of weeks at their training camps.

For example, missing Kelly Oubre Jr. is going to hurt them a lot. Already, Oubre was shaping up to be one of the most dangerous X-Factors in the restart, since not a lot of teams have a guy who can swing the game and lift momentum unless they’re a superstar. The Suns are sorely missing him, and it’s evident that they’ll be focusing on working around it. Missing Oubre has a ripple effect on the team, it’s pushing players who thrive in a bench role, into prime minutes.

Another example is their lack of playoff experience, which should really hurt them. Unlike the Oubre situation, this one can’t be tinkered with so easily. A lack of playoff experience has really hurt teams in the past, teams who were dangerous in the regular season simply withered to a shell in the playoffs. The Suns won’t be a stranger to that instance.

But we can’t linger on the problems, the Suns are a threat when they catch their groove. They’re still a great offensive and defensive squad, arguably one of the best shooting lineups in the Western Conference. Plus, it’s no doubt Devin Booker will be motivated to win during the restart. We’ll also see the role-players, like Cameron Johnson, who has the potential to come out of his shell and become an X-Factor.

This team obviously won’t be a playoff lock, and their chances of making it are severely low. But, we’ll finally get a sneak peek into how this team will manage in the future when they’re faced with playoff humps. Who will they rely on in the clutch? Who will step up when one of their stars is struggling to hit a shot? These questions could more than well be answered come August.

For now, let’s bask in Suns basketball; we’re back in business.