Despite a strong overall season, the Suns are still searching for more consistency on the defensive end, particularly as they approach the postseason.
Head coach Jordan Ott has emphasized a more physical defensive identity throughout the year, with veterans like Dillon Brooks helping set the tone.
Following Thursday’s loss to Charlotte, Ott pointed to specific breakdowns that hurt Phoenix.
“We’ll have to take a look. What hurt us was the middle pick-and-roll, small-small pick-and-roll. That hurt us there in that stretch,” Ott told reporters. “That’s two smalls, and they were able to beat us off the bounce and get to the rim.”
Ott added that adjustments are ongoing as the team looks to tighten things up defensively.
“Everything is on the table,” he said. “We’re trying to figure this thing out on the fly, and that’s what I just said. We’ve got to expedite it. There’s no excuse. We just have to figure it out.”
The Suns have leaned on their offense, led by Devin Booker and Jalen Green, but defensive consistency could be key as they head toward the play-in tournament.
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