© David Dermer-Imagn Images
CLEVELAND – The Phoenix Suns’ inability to complete a Wednesday afternoon comeback against Cleveland wasn’t about effort. Phoenix dug a hole in the first quarter as its offensive execution was struggling. Against a team led by Donovan Mitchell, that’s often a losing situation.
Dec 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) drives on Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
Cleveland controlled tempo, punished switches, and forced the Suns’ defense into reactive mode. By the time Phoenix found its rhythm, the game had already chosen its shape. This loss highlights the strategic truth that elite teams don’t rely on perfect finishes; they rely on consistency from the very start. The Suns’ early possessions lacked paint pressure and defensive communication, allowing Cleveland to play downhill. Phoenix spent valuable minutes burning energy just to get back into it before halftime.
Dec 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) reacts after being fouled and making the basket during the first half against the Phoenix Suns at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
There was, however, a pulse. Devin Booker responded after a rough first quarter with assertive shot-making and improved playmaking, bending the defense and lifting the Suns’ offensive efficiency. That resilience matters psychologically. It shows the ceiling is intact—but the floor remains fragile. Booker ended up shooting 13-for-25 for 32 points along with 4 assists.
Dec 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) goes to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
For Suns fans, they are realizing that this team’s margin for error shrinks when urgency arrives late. Nationally, it reinforces the question of the Suns’ identity and whether they are a group that imposes will from the opening tip or one that survives on talent bursts. Phoenix doesn’t need more firepower. It needs earlier intent. If they can fix those issues after Wednesday’s loss to the Cavs, they should be able to get back on the winning path.
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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
