Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic Set to Clash at Kia Center
As the Phoenix Suns prepare to face off against the Orlando Magic at the Kia Center, fans are eager for what promises to be an electrifying game. The Suns, coming off a mixed bag of recent performances, have shown both resilience and areas needing improvement that could influence their upcoming contest.
In their last game on December 26 against the Dallas Mavericks, the Suns fell short with a score of 114-128. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways for Phoenix. They demonstrated a strong offensive effort with 114 points and a commendable field goal percentage of 44 percent. Their bench contributed significantly with 30 points, showcasing depth that could be pivotal in their next game.
However, defense remains a concern for Phoenix as they allowed Dallas to shoot an impressive 53 percent from the field and score 128 points. The defensive rating from that game stood at around 128 points per hundred possessions – a number they'll need to lower if they hope to contain Orlando's offense.
Looking back further into December reveals more about Phoenix's potential trajectory. On December 23 against Sacramento Kings, despite scoring over a hundred points again (105), defense was once again an issue as they lost by fifteen points allowing Sacramento to put up an imposing total of 120 points.
Earlier in December on the 20th against Portland Trail Blazers – one of their better defensive outings – Phoenix managed to keep their opponents at bay with only six blocks but still suffered defeat by five points (104-109). This suggests that while defense has been less than stellar overall; when tightened up it can lead them close to victory.
The key for Phoenix will be finding consistency on both ends of the floor. Players like Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton must continue leading by example on offense while also stepping up defensively along with Mikal Bridges who is known for his perimeter defense prowess.
Orlando should not be underestimated either; any team can surge given any opportunity in this league full of surprises. But if recent trends are anything to go by, it seems likely that if PHX can harness some defensive discipline without sacrificing too much offensive firepower – they stand a good chance at coming away from Kia Center victorious.
The stage is set for January 28th at Kia Center where fans can catch all action live starting at around six o'clock Eastern Time via BSFL or AZFamily networks depending on your location.