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Phoenix Suns Narrowly Outscored at Smoothie King Center by New Orleans Pelicans

In a closely contested battle at the Smoothie King Center, the Phoenix Suns' record shifted to 16-11 after being narrowly defeated by the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 129-124. The Pelicans improved their season to 18-8.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 11: Dario Saric #20 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on December 11, 2022 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 2022 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)

The game was a showcase of offensive talent as both teams put up impressive numbers. The Suns started strong, leading the first quarter with 36 points and maintaining a competitive edge throughout the game. Despite their efforts, they were outpaced by the Pelicans who secured 41 points in the third quarter alone, contributing significantly to their victory.


Devin Booker's performance was a highlight for the Suns as he contributed significantly to their total of 124 points. His scoring prowess kept fans on edge as he navigated through defenses and found his spots on the court. The team's overall field goal percentage stood at 47 percent with an effective field goal percentage of 53 percent, indicating efficient shooting from both inside and beyond the arc.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 11: Mikal Bridges #25 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on December 11, 2022 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 2022 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Suns also demonstrated strength under pressure with an assist-turnover ratio of approximately two, reflecting their ability to create scoring opportunities while minimizing mistakes. Their bench provided substantial support adding 44 points to their tally and showcasing depth in talent.


On defense, however, there were challenges for Phoenix as they managed only five blocks compared to three by New Orleans. Steals were also fewer for Phoenix with seven against ten by New Orleans which contributed to turnovers that led directly into points for opponents.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 11: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns on December 11, 2022 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 2022 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)

New Orleans capitalized on fast break opportunities better than Phoenix did – scoring nineteen fast break points at an impressive rate of approximately seventy-three percent efficiency compared to eleven for Phoenix at seventy-one percent efficiency.


The Pelicans' dominance in paint was evident; they scored seventy points within this area showing physicality and control near the basket which proved difficult for Phoenix defenders throughout much of playtime despite putting up sixty-four paint points themselves.


As fans look ahead, attention turns towards Toyota Center where Phoenix will face off against Houston Rockets on December thirteen at eight PM Eastern Time (seven PM Central). Fans can catch all action live via BSAZ network channel six hundred eighty-six ensuring not miss any moment upcoming match-up between these Western Conference rivals.

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