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The Suns have no problems scoring. Stopping the other team remains another matter, one that needs addressing sooner than later.
The Celtics hit a whopping 10 three-pointers in the first half, and Phoenix found itself playing catch-up yet again. They nearly pulled it off, closing within three in the final minutes before turnovers sealed the 115-110 loss.
Phoenix's fall in the standings will need to be countered later this week against Oklahoma City and San Antonio. Until then, these factors will likely be discussed in practice.
3. Knight meshes well
Knight Stuffs It Home
There were a pair of 20-point scorers in the Suns' backcourt: Eric Bledsoe (21 points, 10 assists, two steals) and Brandon Knight (20 points, four assists). The newer of the two looked right at home, whether it was hitting runners on the drive or spotting up for three-pointers.
The fit should only get better, but the early signs are already encouraging. Teammates will learn how he likes to deliver the ball, while Knight will gain more confidence in the Suns' system.
2. Defense needs teeth
Alex Len was superb, coming up with his second six-block performance in four days. He needs help, however, especially early in the game. Over the last five games, the Suns are giving up 110.0 points on 47.0 percent shooting, including 41.9 percent from deep.
The latter stat is inflicted on the perimeter, and those players for Phoenix need to apply the same pressure Len creates on the interior.
"We're putting so much pressure on the offense to outscore a team," said Suns Head Coach Jeff Hornacek. "We've got to figure out a way to stop these guys. It's a combination of all kind of things."
1. Energy is a 48-minute requirement
Len Works Both Ends
Phoenix is 1-8 over its last nine games. In that span, they've got the sixth-worst first-half point differential. Too often, the Suns don't come to life until they're already down.
"We've just got to start games better," Len said. "I think they told me we've lost 16 or 17 games by five or less points. We always get back into games, but if we can start the game and keep it close, we're not going to have problems."