Way Too Early Takeaways from the Beginning of the NBA Season

3. The Phoenix Rising

Now we transition from he worst team in the league, Washington, to one of the best, Phoenix. The Suns have picked up right where they left off in the bubble, with the addition of Chris Paul.

The main story in Phoenix so far hasn’t been about Devin Booker or Chris Paul, or even Deandre Ayton. It’s been the Sun’s supporting cast and their team defense.

Mikal Bridges, the third year wing from Villanova, has blossomed so far this season. He’s putting up 15 points per game, on 53% from the field and 50% from 3.

Cameron Johnson, the suns lottery pick last year that many people scratched their heads about, has been another key part to the Suns early success.

As for the their defense, well, the stats speak for themselves. According to lineups.com, the Suns rank 2nd in the entire league in defensive rating. Additionally, they rank 1st in points allowed, 1st in assists allowed and 1st in three pointers allowed. The eye tests checks out with the stats.

Chris Paul and Jae Crowder’s dog mentality on the defensive end has really rubbed off of the young suns. It looks like they have really bought into playing defense. Time will tell if that holds up, but for now Phoenix is looking mighty fine.