Phoenix Suns: Keys to Victory Over Philadelphia 76ers
After a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings last night, the Phoenix Suns look to bounce back tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers.
What are the keys for a Suns victory?
Stop Joel Embiid at all costs
With James Harden potentially out of tonight's game due to an Achilles injury, all Phoenix’s attention on defense should be centered around Joel Embiid.
Embiid has continued to put up historical numbers. He is averaging 33.4 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists and is coming into this game red hot after a 46 point performance against the Golden State Warriors last night.
Deandre Ayton won’t be playing tonight so it will be very important for the Suns to try and double Embiid at all times. While the Sixers do have other scoring threats such as Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris, it is a better alternative to dare them to take over a game as opposed to Embiid.
Embiid will certainly rack up some points but if Phoenix is able to contain him just a little bit, they will have a good shot at victory.
Improve second half scoring
Phoenix was on a roll going into the second half last night as they led 67-56. However, in the second half the Suns crumbled, getting outscored 45-26 in the third quarter and ultimately losing 135-127.
Over the past couple of games, the Suns seem to keep blowing leads in the second half which is a habit that has to stop if they are going to secure a playoff spot.
When things go wrong it will be up to Monty Williams to rally everyone and make adjustments to stop the bleeding.
The Suns looked like a completely different team during the second half last night and in order to beat Philadelphia, they will need to keep their foot on the gas pedal from start to finish.
Second scoring option
With Ayton and Kevin Durant both out for the last handful of games, Phoenix’s scoring has been sporadic to say the least.
Booker has been consistent scoring the basketball but the team has struggled to find a reliable second option especially with Chris Paul not producing offensively the way he used to.
It was Terrence Ross who stepped up last night scoring 30 points and if the Suns are to win tonight, they may need that type of performance out of him today.
Aside from Booker and Paul, nobody on Phoenix’s starting lineup put up over 10 points which absolutely cannot happen tonight.
This three game losing streak has been tough for the Suns but Booker still believes they have the talent despite all their injuries to win games.
“I believe in everybody here,” Booker said after last night's game. “We have the pieces to do it.
