The NBA regular season continues to play out, with the Suns suffering a 112-117 defeat at home against the Grizzlies, marking their third consecutive loss. In this game, the Suns' defense collapsed from the start, allowing the Grizzlies to score 36 points in a single quarter, trailing by 10 points at the end of the first quarter. The Suns then found themselves in a desperate chase for points, with their defensive efficiency remaining low. After scoring 29-33 in the second quarter, they still trailed by around 15 points at halftime. In the second half, the Suns increased their defensive intensity, limiting the Grizzlies to 22 points in the third quarter and closing the gap to within 5 points. In the final quarter, both teams remained in a tight contest, but the Suns failed to seize several key opportunities to overtake the score, ultimately resulting in a disappointing loss. Following this game, the Suns' record stands at 15 wins and 17 losses. So, where exactly did they fall short? Perhaps the data can provide us with some answers.
Durant had an impressive offensive efficiency, shooting 11 for 19, including 2 for 4 from three-point range and 5 for 7 from the free-throw line, contributing 29 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block with 3 turnovers. Durant focused more on defense in this game, not only protecting the basket but also engaging in numerous assists. In the third quarter, as the Suns launched their counterattack, Durant hardly took any shots, yet his court efficiency remained high.
Booker, who made a comeback, provided visible assistance to the Suns, shooting 4 for 20, including 2 for 8 from three-point range and a perfect 6 for 6 from the free-throw line, accumulating 16 points, 4 rebounds, 9 assists, and 3 turnovers. However, he struggled to find his best offensive form, with his shooting rhythm off. Despite his poor shooting, Booker tried to influence the game in other ways, even passing during a fast-break layup opportunity, showing excessive unselfishness. The Suns need Booker to display more aggression in his personal offense to secure victories.
Beal had a mediocre performance, shooting 1 for 5, including 0 for 1 from three-point range and 1 for 2 from the free-throw line, totaling 3 points, 1 rebound, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 turnover. While Beal's performance was underwhelming, the Suns' situation worsened significantly after his injury and subsequent exit. Initially, the trio of stars had come together, slightly improving the situation, but Beal's injury meant that the Suns would continue to rely on Durant and Booker to carry the team.
Tyus Jones shot 7 for 15, including 2 for 5 from three-point range and 5 for 6 from the free-throw line, contributing 21 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 5 turnovers. Despite a poor assist-to-turnover ratio, Jones' performance today was impeccable. He capitalized on every opportunity on the offensive end and exerted himself defensively, making fierce interceptions. With limited ball possession, Jones primarily played the role of a finisher, and the Suns still need to entrust him with more ball distribution.
Plumlee, shooting a perfect 6 for 6, contributed 12 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks. Although Plumlee's performance on both ends of the court may seem average, he effectively supported the Suns' interior in Nurkic's absence due to suspension. Today, his efficiency in scoring was extremely high, and he avoided mistakes on the court, focusing on defense without showboating, playing his part diligently.
Among the bench players, Okeke shot 4 for 7, including 1 for 4 from three-point range and 0 for 1 from the free-throw line, scoring 9 points, 2 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 turnover, performing well on both offense and defense with decent efficiency. Dunn shot 3 for 7, including 2 for 5 from three-point range, contributing 8 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks, fully engaged in both offense and defense, effectively restricting opponents and seizing opportunities when presented, demonstrating great initiative in competing for ball possession.
Regarding the remaining bench role players, Morris shot 5 for 8, including 0 for 1 from three-point range and 2 for 3 from the free-throw line, scoring 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 turnover, serving as the Suns' trump card today with his crucial second-half explosion. Iguodala shot 1 for 4, scoring only 2 points, 2 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 3 turnovers, delivering an average performance. Overall, the Suns' bench performed quite well today, with a group of minimum-wage players exceeding their value in terms of efficiency and performance.