The Phoenix Suns have had a disappointing start to the 2024 NBA Playoffs, losing the first two games of their series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Suns, who entered the series as favorites, have been outplayed by the Timberwolves in both games, losing by an average of 15 points.
One of the biggest concerns for the Suns has been their offense, which has struggled to generate consistent scoring. The team’s three leading scorers, Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, have all struggled to find their rhythm, and the Suns have shot just 42.5% from the field in the series.
In an effort to address the team’s offensive struggles, former NBA player Lou Williams has suggested that head coach Frank Vogel make some changes to the starting lineup. Williams, who won the Sixth Man of the Year award three times during his career, believes that the Suns should consider bringing Beal off the bench.
“Is it a time now for the Phoenix Suns, where they explore the idea of maybe Bradley Beal coming off the bench?” Williams said. “Is it a time now for the Phoenix Suns, where they explore the idea of maybe Bradley Beal coming off the bench?” @TeamLou23 suggests Bradley Beal come off the bench with Isaiah Thomas #NBAPlayoffs #PhoenixSuns : https://t.co/wdT8I0ST8g pic.twitter.com/FfxrYhEBdk
Williams believes that moving Beal to the bench would allow him to be more effective as a scorer. He would be able to come off the bench and provide the Suns with a much-needed spark, and he would be less likely to be guarded by the opposing team’s best defender.
In addition to moving Beal to the bench, Williams also believes that the Suns should give Isaiah Thomas a shot in the rotation. Thomas, who signed with the Suns on a 10-day contract earlier this month, has shown flashes of his old self in limited minutes. He is a proven scorer and playmaker, and he could provide the Suns with another offensive weapon.
The Suns are in a must-win situation in Game 3, and they may need to make some changes to their lineup in order to turn the series around. If they are able to get Beal and Thomas going, they could be a dangerous team in the playoffs.
