(Barry Gossage/NBAE/Getty Images)
So maybe the Pistons are injury-depleted, offensively challenged, and road-weary.
Okay, there’s no maybe about it.
But those caveats aside, you still had to be impressed with just about every phase of this performance by the Suns. They moved the ball well, they shot it well, they defended energetically, and in general they did exactly what you’re supposed to do against an injury-depleted, offensively challenged, and road-weary opponent.
Not only that, but Coach Alvin was able to rest his starters almost all of the fourth period, and his bench dominated almost as much as the starters. And he had to be particularly impressed by the play of backup point guard Goran Dragic. This is a position that is almost always mentioned as a weakness for the Suns, but Drajic continues to improve in the two areas he needs the most work—judgment and confidence.
The Suns have looked so unexpectedly good coming out of the gate that many citizens on Planet Orange are starting to pinch themselves to make sure they’re not dreaming, or alternatively, getting too giddy too soon.
Indeed, as a defense against such feelings they are looking for clouds in their silver lining– deceptively easy schedule, rebounding and defensive shortcomings that will eventually bring them down to their pre-assigned slot in the West, i.e., 8th, etc., etc.
But be of good cheer. The team’s fast start is not THAT misleading. Translation: You can confidently believe quite a bit of what you see, and add some bonus faith for the way the players have bonded with each other, their coach, and the system.
A month ago there was absolutely no reason to think title, and frankly there still isn’t. But on the basis of the admittedly small sample we’ve seen so far there’s e every reason to think third or fourth seed. Maybe even a second if you’re of glass-half-full persuasion.
The bottom line: Suns fans have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.
