Suns Left off 2022-23 NBA Title Contenders List

On Sports Illustrated's recent top five NBA title contenders list, the Suns are left out of the fun.

The general consensus surrounding the Phoenix Suns might not be full expectations to win the NBA Finals, but at least they'll field a worthy roster. 

Most of their core is retained after back to back seasons consisting of an impressive run to the NBA Finals and reaching 64 wins in the regular season. 

Yet Phoenix hasn't proved capable of answering the bell when crunch time hits in pivotal moments, and until proven otherwise, some within the national media aren't willing to believe they're capable of what many in the Valley believe they can do. 

Sports Illustrated's Rohan Nadkarni recently pieced together a ranking list for NBA title contenders next season, and the Suns were left as bystanders.

Phoenix Suns Left off NBA Title Contention List

The Los Angeles Clippers managed to edge the Golden State Warriors for the No. 1 spot on the list. Boston ranked at No. 3 and following are the Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets to round out the top five. 

The Philadelphia 76ers were next, labeled as "fringe" contenders. 

Then, you arrive to the Suns, who were joined by the Memphis Grizzlies in the "eyebrow raised" category. 

"Let’s actually start with two teams who fashioned themselves title hopefuls in 2022 that may be on shaky ground after this summer. The Suns appear to be mostly running back the same crew from the team that won a franchise-record 64 games, JaVale McGee notwithstanding," said Nadkarni. 

"Phoenix’s starting five should remain one of the better units in the league, and Deandre Ayton particularly could be in a better headspace without his contract situation lingering. Still, the bench remains a question mark here. I would’ve liked to see this team try to bring in a stronger backup for Chris Paul after Cam Payne’s playoff struggles, especially considering CP’s injury history." 

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