PHOENIX – Before the season, Bleacher Report painted the Phoenix Suns as a 26–56 afterthought. Not rebuilding, just regressing.
PHOENIX – Before the season, Bleacher Report painted the Phoenix Suns as a 26–56 afterthought. Not rebuilding, just regressing. That projection has already been shattered, as the Phoenix Suns have been locked in so far this season.
Currently sitting at 27–17 and sixth in the Western Conference, the Suns cleared the bar of Bleacher Report anaylist Grant Hughes’ predictions. Phoenix has done so by winning in ways projections rarely measure: lineup flexibility, coaching adaptability, and psychological buy-in.
Nov 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Royce O’Neale (00) celebrates a three pointer in the second half of the game at Mortgage Match Up Center. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
Suns HC Jordan Ott was labeled “unproven.” What’s proven now is his impact. Phoenix ranks among the league’s most efficient teams in clutch net rating, a direct reflection of late-game organization and trust. Jordan Ott’s rotations haven’t relied on the impact of one or two stars; they’ve leveraged depth. The Suns routinely adjust lineups without a drop in defensive rating, a rarity in a star-driven league.
Jan 20, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) reacts after his score against the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Then there’s the claim that owner Mat Ishbia lacks asset management. The data says otherwise. Phoenix has above-average bench scoring, matchup-specific role players, and optionality of contracts and skill sets that can be reconfigured without panic. That’s not recklessness, that’s portfolio balance.
Jan 19, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Phoenix Suns guard/forward Dillon Brooks (3) looks on against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Suns fans react to Bleacher Report’s projections:
For Suns fans, this season has delivered something deeper than wins: validation. Validation that smart process beats loud opinion. That chemistry isn’t accidental, and that culture compounds. The Suns didn’t break Bleacher Report’s expectations; they exposed them.
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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
Category: General Sports