DENVER – The Phoenix Suns were trounced 133-111 by the Nuggets on Saturday night, and the glaring roster issues were on full display.
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Oct 25, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Phoenix guard Collin Gillespie (12) passes the ball as he is defended by Denver guard Jamal Murray (27) during the first half at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
Their inconsistent offense points squarely to the missing piece, which is a point guard who controls tempo, limits mistakes, and stitches together both ends of the court. The Suns’ turnover count, coupled with defensive breakdowns, shows that talent alone isn’t enough; they’re missing the connective tissue. Across recent losses, Phoenix has shown skilled scorers, yet a failure to manage the game when the opponent gets it going. Phoenix lacks that stabilizer and game manager.
Oct 25, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Phoenix guard Grayson Allen (8) questions a call by a referee during the second half against the Denver at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
Without a reliable point guard, the Suns are forced into “hero ball”, letting their stars make plays, often under duress. That diminishes efficiency, and against a disciplined team like Denver, it gets exposed. Strategically, the front office must prioritize either acquiring a true lead-guard or switching current roles, especially if the goal remains a playoff run.
Oct 25, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Phoenix center Nick Richards (2) passes the ball ahead to guard Collin Gillespie (12) during the second half against the Denver at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
Locally in Phoenix, fans expect posture and control. This loss shows a deficit in both. Nationally, amid a loaded Western Conference, this shortcoming shifts how opponents game-plan against the Suns. Opponents will force turnovers, push tempo, and exploit indecision. That matters for seeding and postseason viability. For the Suns fans, this is frustrating because they know they have the talent. Phoenix yearns for leadership, not only from the face of the franchise, Devin Booker, but also from someone controlling the offense who can figure out the pieces of the puzzle.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Cardinals for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
