The Phoenix Suns shocked everyone last season, ringing off 45 wins and snagging an NBA Playoff berth when most experts pegged them for a major disappointment. Talk about failing at meeting expectations, right? But here’s the kicker: after proving every single forecast wrong, showing they were worthy of higher praise, the national media is *still* doubting them. The 2026-27 Suns are back in familiar territory, being challenged to prove themselves all over again.
Same Squad, Same Mission
For owner Mat Ishbia, general manager Brian Gregory, and head coach Jordan Ott, the message is clear as day: continuity. They’re not just talking it, they’re living it. They wasted no time re-signing Collin Gillespie, Jordan Goodwin, and Mark Williams in the offseason. On opening night, 10 of the active players were part of last year’s squad. That’s a massive lean into their established identity. Yeah, Mark Williams is still on the mend from offseason shoulder surgery, but the core is there. This kind of consistency? That’s what Phoenix is banking on to ascend in the Western Conference.
Booker’s Back, And He’s Bringing The Fire
When you talk continuity for the Suns, you’re talking Devin Booker. This guy is in his 12th year with the franchise, and he’s still the main man, the heart of the team. He’s got that same smooth jumper and attitude, even if he’s sporting a bit more facial hair and a new number now. Coming off his fifth All-Star campaign, where he finished top 10 in the league with 26.1 points per game and top 20 with 6.0 assists, Booker has made it clear: he plans to be even *more* assertive on offense. His value isn’t just in scoring though; it’s also about his leadership, imparting wisdom to guys like Jalen Green. Green is taking on a bigger on-ball role in his second year after injuries sidelined him last season. Preseason results were a mixed bag for Green, but his willingness to evolve speaks volumes about the work culture Phoenix boasts. Even Dillon Brooks had a career year in his ninth season, thanks to the Suns’ impact.
So, as the new season kicks off, the Suns are putting their heads down and trusting that identity and culture to carry them. Can they really exceed expectations *again*? Everyone outside the locker room seems to think it was a fluke. This team is ready to get back to work and show the league what’s truly being built in the desert.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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