PHOENIX – The verdict has already been delivered, at least outside of Phoenix, as ESPN analysts Stephen A. Smith and Kendrick Perkins claimed that the series between the Phoenix Suns and Oklahoma City Thunder is over.’
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!“Is the sky blue? Am I wearing a blue blazer? The series is over.”@stephenasmith when he and @KendrickPerkins were asked who will win Thunder-Suns Game 4 tonight in Phoenix.
OKC up 3-0 looking for sweep in best-of-7 series. #Suns #ThunderUp pic.twitter.com/z0EEOZh8Ik
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) April 27, 2026
Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives on Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) in the first half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Down 0-3 in the first round of the 2025-26 NBA Playoffs, the Suns are carrying more than a deficit into Game 4. They’re carrying an assumption. The Thunder have controlled the pace, executed cleaner late, and forced Phoenix into uncomfortable stretches offensively. Even the perception of whistles leaning one way adds to a sense that this series has slipped beyond reach.
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) shoots as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) defends in the second quarter during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
But the sharpest spotlight falls on Devin Booker. Franchise players are expected to bend games to their will, not blend into them. Booker’s shot attempts and on-ball aggression have dipped compared to his regular-season baseline, and that hesitation has fueled questions about whether he’s still “the guy” when defenses tighten and stakes rise.
Feb 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) questions a ref in the second half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
This is where narrative becomes reality. Suns fans hear the same voices, while some reject it and others quietly agree. That divide matters because it shapes how this season is remembered. Phoenix wasn’t supposed to be here, yet they pushed into relevance. Does that context soften a sweep, or does it sharpen disappointment? Game 4 won’t change the math. But it can challenge the certainty. One win may not rewrite the series, but it can rewrite perception.
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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
