WASHINGTON – At halftime, the scoreboard favors the Phoenix Suns, but the story underneath it is louder than the lead. Collin Gillespie, a point guard who has been carving out a name for himself, is now often being circled in pregame scouting reports. Gillespie is still shooting lights out. Though on Monday night, with clean looks and no hesitation. In a game where most Suns are searching for rhythm, Gillespie has provided clarity.
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Dec 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The warning sign is who they’re barely ahead of. Washington, who is currently the second-worst team in the East, has survived Phoenix’s talent advantage because the Suns’ offense has been slow to ignite. Outside of Gillespie, possessions have leaned toward late-clock creation and contested jumpers, low-efficiency habits that don’t age well in any scenario. Even with the low record, Washington has won their last two home games.
Dec 27, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) sits on the bench on a time out against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The data point that matters isn’t just Gillespie’s makes; it’s distribution. When one role player is carrying shot quality while stars misfire, it reveals both opportunity and vulnerability. Opportunity, because Phoenix’s system can elevate the prepared. Vulnerability, because it still relies heavily on individual shot-making rather than sustained pressure.
Dec 27, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) dribbles against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
For Suns fans, this half lands emotionally in a familiar place as they have pride in the roster, though unease in the process on Monday night in the first half. Gillespie’s confidence is contagious, though it shouldn’t be necessary against this opponent. Top-tier level teams turn early advantages into separation. They don’t wait for a spark; they manufacture it. If the Suns can get Gillespie some more help offensively, they should be in a good position to come away with a victory on Monday night.
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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
