I don’t know how you define progression or what you ultimately expect from the preseason. Progression is subjective, with too many intricacies and variables to truly define it. But whatever we witnessed on Saturday night against the San Antonio Spurs in downtown Phoenix was what I would consider progress.
We witnessed improved ball security. Granted, the Suns still committed 16 turnovers, but that’s a far cry from the 29 they averaged through their first two preseason games. We witnessed consistent
effort, but more importantly, we witnessed improved execution throughout the roster. And that’s going to be the key for the Phoenix Suns this season.
I have no doubt the effort will be present night in and night out. That’s not going to be an issue for this team. Execution is ultimately where success and failure will meet, and Saturday night provided encouraging signs that the Suns are beginning to figure some things out.
Jalen Green looked much cleaner running the point. His eyes were up, he was reading the floor, and he was delivering passes with both his left and right hands off the dribble. Khaman Maluach, who earned the start against Victor Wembanyama, appeared more comfortable and aware of his positioning, particularly when pursuing rebounds. Luke Kennard once again demonstrated that he’s much more than a spot-up three-point shooter, showcasing his ability to handle the basketball and participate in multiple offensive actions.
There are still opportunities for improvement, because of course there are. No game is ever perfect, especially at this stage of the season. But the Suns are utilizing the preseason the way they should. They’re experimenting, mixing and matching rotations, giving players extended opportunities to build confidence and comfort within their roles, and gradually developing the execution necessary to complement their effort.
All while preparing for the long trek that lies ahead.
Bright Side Baller Standings
There was no “mailing it in because it’s the preseason” for the Villain on Wednesday in Chicago. 24 points for Dillon on an efficient 77.8% shooting from the field.
Bright Side Baller Nominees
Preseason Game 3 against the Spurs. Here are your nominees:
Luke Kennard
20 points (8-of-15, 4-of-10 3PT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 turnover, +11 +/-
Jalen Green
18 points (7-of-12, 3-of-5 3PT), 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, +12 +/-
Khaman Maluach
10 points (4-of-9, 1-of-2 3PT), 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 2 turnovers, +14 +/-
Dillon Brooks
15 points (4-of-11, 1-of-4 3PT), 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, +10 +/-
Oso Ighodaro
8 points (4-of-7, 0-of-0 3PT), 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, 0 turnovers, -4 +/-
Ryan Dunn
6 points (2-of-5, 0-of-1 3PT), 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 turnover, +10 +/-
Saturday night hoops, Sunday morning votes.
