The Phoenix Suns are back! Their preseason opens on Sunday with a showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers in Palm Springs, California. Fans are eager to see the new-look Suns under head coach Frank Vogel and see if they can build on the promising offseason moves. Here's a look at some key storylines to watch for in the game:
The New Offense
The Suns' offense has always been potent, but under Vogel, it is expected to be even more fast-paced and focused on three-point shooting. This will be a key area to watch during the preseason as the team works to implement these new philosophies. While it may take time for the Suns to fully adjust to their new style, the preseason will provide valuable insights into their progress.
The Suns have a strong roster, with stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal leading the way. However, the bench is where the most intrigue lies. Tyus Jones will likely be the starting point guard, and his ability to distribute the ball effectively will be crucial to the team's success. Beyond the starting five, the battle for minutes on the bench is a major talking point, as the Suns have a number of young players who will be looking to prove themselves.
The Young Guys
The Suns have a number of young players who will be looking to make a name for themselves in the preseason. These players include Ryan Dunn, Jalen Bridges, and Oso Ighodaro. Their performance in the preseason will be a big indicator of their potential roles for the Suns. The Suns have a strong core, but the development of these young players could be a major factor in their success this season. How well they perform will be a key indicator of how much trust Vogel will put in them in the regular season.
The Lakers' New Look
The Lakers have a new head coach in JJ Redick, and they're looking to find their footing after a disappointing 2023-24 season. They will be looking to their core players, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D'Angelo Russell, to lead the way. However, the team's young players, like rookie Dalton Knecht and guard Austin Reaves, could make a significant impact as well. The Lakers will need to find a way to mesh their experienced players with their new additions to be a contender.
The Preseason is Just a Tune-Up
Preseason games aren’t about wins or losses. It’s more about getting into shape, evaluating the roster, and working out the kinks. While this first game may provide some insights into the Suns' and Lakers' plans for the upcoming season, fans shouldn't expect to see the finished product just yet. The real test will be in the regular season when it counts the most.
Final Thoughts
The Suns vs. Lakers matchup is one of the most anticipated preseason games. The Suns have a new coach and a new offense to implement. The Lakers have a new coach and a mix of young talent and veterans. There's a lot to look forward to in this game, but it's just a preview of what's to come.
