Opinion
3 min read

Will the Suns Eclipse the Celtics at TD Garden?

As the Phoenix Suns prepare to face off against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward their momentum and outshine one of the Eastern Conference's formidable squads. The upcoming clash scheduled for March 14 is not just another game on the calendar; it's a test of resilience for a team that has shown both flashes of brilliance and moments of vulnerability.


BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 03:  Malcolm Brogdon #13 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket against Damion Lee #10 of the Phoenix Suns at TD Garden on February 03, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

The Suns' recent performance against the Houston Rockets on March 3 was less than stellar, as they fell short with a final score of 109-118. Despite this setback, there were positive takeaways from that game. The Suns demonstrated an ability to rally back in quarters three and four, scoring 35 and 30 points respectively after trailing early in the game. Their tenacity will be crucial when they step onto the court in Boston.


One area where PHX needs to tighten up is turnovers; they gave up possession 19 times against HOU. This kind of carelessness won't fly against BOS, who will be ready to capitalize on any mistakes. However, it's worth noting that PHX showed better control in their previous encounter with HOU on March 1st, where they emerged victorious with a scoreline of 110-105 while committing fewer turnovers.


BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 3: Chris Paul #3 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on February 3, 2023 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.  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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

The matchup also brings into focus PHX's bench strength which contributed significantly with 39 points during their loss but was less impactful during their win over HOU earlier in March. Consistency from role players could be a deciding factor against BOS.


Looking back further at February's performance provides more insight into what fans can expect from PHX when they're firing on all cylinders. Their commanding victory over Los Angeles Lakers by an impressive margin (123-113) showcased what this team is capable of when everything clicks – high efficiency scoring (61 percent true shooting), dominance inside (51 percent points in paint), and stout defense (9 blocks).


BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 3: Chris Paul #3 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on February 3, 2023 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.  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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Against BOS, Phoenix will need to replicate this level of play – especially defensively – as Celtics are known for their offensive prowess. The defensive intensity displayed by blocking nine shots and grabbing six steals versus LAL must become standard if PHX wishes to contain BOS’s scorers.


In conclusion, while some may doubt whether Phoenix can rise above recent inconsistencies, there’s enough evidence suggesting that when focused and disciplined, this team has all it takes to secure wins even away from home soil.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 14th at 4:30 PM MST as PHX takes on BOS at TD Garden – an encounter you can catch live on TNT or AZFamily networks. Will Phoenix shine bright or fade away under Boston’s pressure? Only time will tell.

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