NBA Western Power Rankings Week 6: Clippers start rising
By Tom West
Dec 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) and forward Mirza Teletovic (35) react after defeating the Chicago Bulls at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
10th: Phoenix Suns (10 points)
By Tom West
Record: 10-14
December record: 2-5
A great backcourt can only take you so far, and that’s what the Suns are finding out this season. Both Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight are having career-years, with averages of 22.3 points and 20.5 points per game, respectively. In fact, their numbers, shooting efficiency, and player efficiency ratings have risen significantly, and they’re the main reason why the Suns have been able to win 10 games so far.
Alex Len has also looked good over the last few games with some extra minutes, and had a big night with 20 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks on December 9 in a 104-107 win against the Orlando Magic. Meanwhile, their new center, Tyson Chandler, hasn’t been putting up the best numbers of his career, but has at least made a positive difference defending the paint.
However, when looking at the team overall they still haven’t protected the basket or the perimeter to much success. They rank 20th in the NBA in defensive efficiency, and allowing 127 points in an overtime loss to the Pistons and 109 to the Wizards this month are reasons why.
Scoring is still their strong point behind the play of Bledsoe and Knight, yet they just aren’t enough to carry the whole team.
Next: Portland Trail Blazers