PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns’ offense started slow on Sunday night, though came on strong at the end of the first half. Against the Clippers, Phoenix opened the first half searching for a rhythm that didn’t arrive until late in the second quarter.
PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns’ offense started slow on Sunday night, though came on strong at the end of the first half. Against the Clippers, Phoenix opened the first half searching for a rhythm that didn’t arrive until late in the second quarter. Dillon Brooks had 9 points in the first half and shot 3-for-9, and only Grayson Allen had double digit points heading into halftime.
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Grayson Allen (8) against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Phoenix’s problem isn’t their lack of depth or adjustments made; it was a balance of mid shots leading to a shift in momentum and energy. Early possessions lack intent. The ball sticks, actions flatten, and the Suns default to reading defenses instead of stressing them. After a tough back-to-back against the Pistons and Cavaliers earlier this weekend, the energy levels might have taken a hit. Missing their two biggest scorers, Devin Booker and Jalen Green, due to injuries is surely going to take some firepower out of the offense as well.
Feb 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix injured guards Jalen Green (left) and Devin Booker against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Clippers exploited this better than most this season as they switched on defense without panic, and dared Phoenix to beat them with tempo. When early shots don’t fall, the Suns tighten up, which was uncharacteristic for this Phoenix team. Suns fans can sense it too, that uneasy quiet when a talented offense looks unsure of itself. This matters beyond one game. Nationally, Phoenix is judged by how it responds to playoff-style defenses. Locally, fans wanted proof this group can self-correct without waiting for halftime.
Feb 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) against Phoenix forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
Category: General Sports
