Opinion
3 min read

Can the Phoenix Suns Outshine the Memphis Grizzlies at Footprint Center?

As the Phoenix Suns prepare to host the Memphis Grizzlies, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at Footprint Center. The upcoming game, scheduled for January 7th, is not just another date on the calendar; it's a chance for the Suns to solidify their dominance on their home court.


PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 2: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 2, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

The recent performance of the Suns has been nothing short of spectacular. On January 6th, they outplayed Miami Heat with an impressive scoreline of 113-97. Their offense was firing on all cylinders as they led for over 40 minutes and boasted a field goal percentage of 51 percent. Notably, their three-point shooting was formidable at 40 percent accuracy, contributing significantly to their victory.


The bench also played a pivotal role in that win by adding 24 points to the scoreboard. This depth will be crucial against Memphis Grizzlies' defense which has shown some vulnerabilities this season. The ability of PHX's bench players to step up could very well tip the scales in favor of the home team.


PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 2: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns shoots a free throw during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 2, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it would be remiss not to consider PHX's previous encounter with LA Clippers on January 4th where despite scoring an impressive 122 points and maintaining a field goal percentage of over fifty percent once again (53 percent), they fell short by nine points in a high-scoring affair that ended at 131-122 in favor of LAC.


This loss highlighted some defensive shortcomings that need addressing before facing MEM who are known for their aggressive playstyle and ability to capitalize on turnovers – something PHX experienced firsthand during this defeat.


PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 2: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 2, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

In contrast, MEM comes into this game after showing resilience throughout their season but still struggling with consistency. They will undoubtedly look towards exploiting any lapse in concentration from PHX’s side while trying to contain what has been an explosive offense so far from Phoenix.


The key matchup will likely revolve around controlling possession and capitalizing off turnovers; areas where both teams have shown strengths but also weaknesses throughout various games this season. For Phoenix Suns fans looking forward to attending or tuning into this exciting matchup can catch all action live from Footprint Center or through broadcast networks AZFamily or BSSE channel 649 starting at sharp six o'clock local time (Mountain Standard Time) on Sunday evening.

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