The Phoenix Suns are continuing to search for answers in the absence of Devin Booker. Such was evident once more on Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Suns were able to put a stop to the Cavs’ scoring dominance that was on display recently. Yet somehow, the offense struggled mightily despite Cleveland not posing a threat.
Phoenix turned in a 14-point first quarter, putting them well below average. The Suns were able to increase their scoring slightly in the second quarter, adding 29 points to their total.
Given Donovan Mitchell‘s 71-point outburst against the Chicago Bulls, the Cavs could definitely make an impactful run in the second half. A low-scoring half could come back to haunt the Suns.
The Suns were able to hold a 43-33 lead over the Cavs going to halftime.
Deandre Ayton
Ayton is trending towards a double-double as the second half gets underway. The seven-foot center is up to eight points and six rebounds for the half.
A turnaround game for Ayton is needed given his previous outing against the New York Knicks. He only registered just 12 points and five rebounds, which is far from what’s desired with Booker remaining out.
Chris Paul
Paul definitely showed up for action on Wednesday. Despite being the solo playmaker for the Suns in the primary rotation, Paul made due with his makeshift starters.
The 37-year old put up 14 points while shooting 5-of-8 from the field. His scoring was a primary contributor to Phoenix maintaining a lead going through the second quarter.
Shooting Woes
Phoenix overall shot 43 percent from the field while going 33 percent from three-point range. While the numbers aren’t downright horrendous, they certainly do trend in that direction.
Aside from Ayton and Paul, the Suns are a combined 7-of-24 from the field. Each player in that range has only made one of their field goal attempts. If the Suns hope to maintain their lead in the second half, contributions from players other than Paul and Ayton will be necessary.
