Phoenix Suns: 4 key factors fueling a scorching start to the year

4. The Phoenix Suns have a concise strategy on the defensive end of the floor.

This is far from the most defensively talented team in the NBA. If you simply looked at the personnel, it’s conceivable that Phoenix wouldn’t crack the top 10. But defense isn’t just about talent — it requires commitment, heart and mental toughness that the Suns are showing in droves through this highly successful stint.

Phoenix gives up the third-fewest points per game to its opponents, largely by controlling the time of possession and pestering ball-handlers with active hands to force turnovers — a category where they rank fifth in the league. This team covers up mistakes by playing as a unit, closing out with commitment and offering help defense against top assignments.

Helping is always a gamble and at times, it comes back to bite them, but that doesn’t discourage this team from sticking to its wits. The second unit is offering exceptional effort on this side of the floor — especially backup center Bismack Biyombo and defensive specialist Josh Okogie in his first year with the team. Their hustle is certainly translating to the box score with the Suns ranking second in loose balls recovered and deflections per game.

Consistency is key, so if the team can maintain this effort level into the postseason, we’ll be looking at another potential Finals appearance for this Phoenix Suns ballclub.