The stereotypes are in full swing for the Phoenix Suns as they prepare to host the humble Minnesota Timberwolves in a home duel on Thursday and Friday.
You have to beat the bad teams. It’s a game of traps. You can’t downplay the competition, etc.
It’s hard to calculate whether a top 4 seed or even a top 2 seed (as the suns are in 2nd place on Thursday) will mean that much playoff time. How many fans would there have to be in the arena to make an impact?
One thing is certain: The suns would not lose confidence or momentum by winning the Pacific Division. So why not fire your shot now?
The Phoenix Suns will have to sweep this pair in order to maintain their title pursuit in the Pacific Division.
With Minnesota winning two out of three games – a legitimate streak for the 9-31 Timberwolves – the Suns must be wary of losing to the Lakers on Tuesday.
Look out for Devin Booker’s energy in the first quarter as he competes against pal Karl Anthony-Towns on Thursday. Booker is in the top 10 scorers for the first quarter this season and has yet to give Phoenix another quick break.
With the focus not entirely on the court due to rumors and discussions about trading deadlines, the suns enter a fascinating stage that includes both newcomers and the deceased.
Phoenix, whose roles will be refined as the playoffs progress, is at least on hiatus with Timberwolves Malik Beasley (suspension), D’Angelo Russell (knee) and – for Thursday at least – likely Jarrett Culver (toe) absent. listed as doubtful.
Timberwolves coach Chris Finch is hoping the 22-year-old will play on Friday.
And the Phoenix Suns have to beware of Ricky Rubio, who recently found his scoring opportunity.
The Timberwolves point guard, laid down by Phoenix as the team’s main playmaker after the close of 2020, remained without a 3-point shot for more than a month.
Just in time for his reunion in the valley, Ricky Rubio averages 11.5 points and 7.6 assists in his last 17 games. He shoots 44 percent from the field and – especially when it comes to the suns – he has found his 3-point stroke, which hits almost 40 percent during the current distance.
“I think it’s rhythm, I think it’s figuring out when and how to shoot in the team’s system,” said Rubio. “Knowing when to be aggressive, especially for a point guard who really wants to organize everyone.
“Sometimes I get lost out there, not thinking about my shot and then taking it when it’s either too late or out of rhythm. But now I feel like I’m in a rhythm in the system and on the fly where I feel confident enough to shoot the ball at a high clip. “
The Suns took care of business (another useful stereotype) in Monday’s escape to Memphis; From the first quarter onwards, they have to stay in the throats of inferior competition.
Comments are closed.