Suns vs. Pistons on League Pass: 3 Key Highlights to Watch
The Phoenix Suns will face off against the Detroit Pistons for an exciting match on Thursday evening. This game is part of a challenging six-game road trip for the Suns. They hold a 24-16 record, placing them seventh in the Western Conference. The Pistons, with a record of 28-10, are currently leading the Eastern Conference. Fans can catch the game at 7 ET on League Pass.
Suns vs. Pistons Highlights: Key Factors to Watch
1. Elite Defensive Teams
Both the Suns and Pistons have established themselves as defensive powerhouses this season. They rank among the top ten teams in defensive rating. As of January 14, they are tied for first in steals per game with 10.4.
- Suns: 112.2 defensive rating (6th in the NBA)
- Pistons: 109.7 defensive rating (2nd in the NBA)
Each team boasts athletic and versatile defenders at nearly every position. Dillon Brooks and Ausar Thompson are key players to watch in the wings.
2. Phoenix’s Recent Performance
The Suns recently experienced a setback, losing 127-121 to the Miami Heat, ending their three-game winning streak. Despite this loss, they have performed well overall, going 10-4 in their last 14 games.
Notable victories include wins against the top-ranked Oklahoma City Thunder and the New York Knicks, currently second in the East. Dillon Brooks has been a standout player, setting career highs in several categories:
- Points: 21.3
- Field Goals Made: 7.9
- Field Goal Percentage: 45.7%
His offensive aggressiveness has increased, especially with teammate Jalen Green limited by injuries this season.
3. Cade Cunningham’s Impact
Cade Cunningham, the first overall pick from 2021, continues to excel in his fifth year. Despite missing the last two games due to a wrist injury, he has shown impressive averages in his recent performances:
- Points: 28.5
- Assists: 10.5
- Steals: 1.8
- Plus-minus: 7.7
Cunningham’s strong contributions have kept the Pistons competitive, even with key players sidelined due to injuries.
As the Suns and Pistons prepare to clash, fans can expect a thrilling game filled with high-level defense and standout performances. This matchup highlights not only the talent of individual players but also the strength of these two teams in the NBA.
