The current NBA landscape is going fast as the regular season approaches its end and makes way for the playoffs. While some teams are locked in for the postseason, others struggle to hold their position even with a solid roster.
With only 10 games remaining, the Phoenix Suns are in a difficult position to make the playoffs directly and avoid the play-in tournament. Not only that, but the all-in trade for Bradley Beal also made the Suns’ roster short of role players, and if this becomes a bust season for the Suns, it may drive some players out of the league or force an early retirement.
Multiple Phoenix Suns players, like Isaiah Thomas, face uncertainty
The stakes are high for the Phoenix Suns as the pressure to earn a spot in the playoffs takes a toll on the squad amidst injuries and a competitive Western Conference scenario. With an uncertain lineup surrounding the big three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, the Suns’ management finds it difficult to find suitable role players. Hence, the future of five players in the league is uncertain after the 2023-24 season.
One of these players is veteran point guard Isaiah Thomas, who signed a 10-day contract with the Suns earlier this month and is fighting for a permanent spot. Ish Wainwright, who was waived by the Suns but re-signed earlier in March, is another player who might be released if he fails to produce numbers on the floor. Josh Okogie, a young talent, has a whole career ahead of him. However, his inconsistency shooting from the field has been a significant factor in his limited playing time, ranging from 5 to 25 minutes per game. If his defensive prowess slips, the 6’4″ wing might find himself out of the league in no time.
The NBA veteran Thaddeus Young has proven himself to be a significant role player over the 17 years he’s been in the NBA. If he fails to showcase his experience in the postseason and contribute, the 35-year-old might be forced to retire from the NBA.
Finally, the 7’3″ center Bol Bol possesses a unique skill set of his own but isn’t receiving enough playing time due to defensive issues. If he doesn’t improve his defensive prowess, he might find himself facing an early retirement.
Suns have utilized 22 different players this NBA season
The Suns have been experimenting with different line-ups and rotations to complement their star players, but they have failed to find suitable role players to maximize their scoring and defensive efficiency.
Throughout the season, the Suns have utilized 22 different players and continue to switch lineups.
Finding a suitable playing combination could make a huge difference for the remaining regular season, as they’ve been struggling with the same issue for a long time, and this could help them go deep with their playoff run and avoid an early exit.
