Suns' Regular Season Record: A Key to Unlocking Success

The Phoenix Suns' regular season record is often overlooked in favor of their flashy postseason performances. However, it's the foundation laid during those 82 games that sets them up for success or failure in the playoffs. In this article, we'll explore how the Suns' regular season record has influenced their performance against the Denver Nuggets.

One of the most significant factors in the Suns' success is the emergence of Torrey Craig as a reliable sixth man. His ability to shoot 56% from deep against the Los Angeles Lakers and score effectively from mid-range positions has given Phoenix an added dimension off the bench. This could prove crucial in their matchup against Denver, as the Nuggets will likely focus on stopping Chris Paul's playmaking abilities.

Speaking of CP3, his struggles during the regular season are a cause for concern. His usage rate dropped to 20.8%, and he scored less than a point per shot, both league-average marks. In contrast, his efficiency dipped below league average in the playoffs for the first time in his career. This could be attributed to the attention drawn to Kevin Durant even when he's not involved in plays.

The presence of KD on the team has led to some interesting dynamics. Phoenix can't continue to rely on him as a decoy, especially with Booker being their only other reliable creator. Monty Williams must find ways to get his players more involved and take advantage of Denver's lack of depth.

Looking ahead to the series, it's clear that every game will be high-scoring affair. The Suns' mid-range-heavy offense will clash with the Nuggets' passing-oriented scheme led by Jamal Murray. On paper, this matchup couldn't be more stylistically different, setting up an intriguing battle between two teams with contrasting philosophies.

In conclusion, the Suns' regular season record serves as a reminder of their strengths and weaknesses heading into the playoffs. By understanding these factors, fans can better appreciate the challenges they'll face against Denver and how they might adapt to overcome them.

Nuggets suns regular season record