The start of the Phoenix Suns’ 2024-25 season is looming closer. It’s time to take a quick look back at the highlights and lowlights of the past decade.
With Mike Budenholzer announcing this year’s starting five, there’s no better occasion to analyze and rank the starting fives from each of the last ten season openers for the Phoenix Suns.
Team Records by Year
- 2023-24: 49-33
- 2022-23: 45-37
- 2021-22: 64-18
- 2020-21: 51-21*
- 2019-20: 34-39*
- 2018-19: 19-63
- 2017-18: 21-61
- 2016-17: 24-58
- 2015-16: 23-59
- 2014-15: 39-43
*Covid season(s), fewer games
Disclaimer: This list will not include players who were injured on opening night; for example, Bradley Beal was absent from last year’s season opener.
#1: The 2021-22 Phoenix Suns (64-18)
Chris Paul – Devin Booker – Mikal Bridges – Jae Crowder – Deandre Ayton
This roster secured 64 victories, including an impressive 18-game winning streak. They seemed driven… until they weren’t. Yet, this team possessed strong chemistry, with Devin Booker emerging as an MVP candidate.
#2: The 2020-21 Phoenix Suns (51-21)
Chris Paul – Devin Booker – Mikal Bridges – Jae Crowder – Deandre Ayton
It feels unusual to place a team that reached the NBA Finals anywhere but the top, but honestly, I believe the 2021-22 team was superior and had more experience.
Playoff success varies each year; sometimes luck is on your side, while other times, it isn’t. However, that Game 7 collapse against Dallas does not alter my evaluation of the starting five at that particular time.
#3: The 2022-23 Phoenix Suns (45-37)</
#5) The 2019-20 Phoenix Suns (34-39)*
Ricky Rubio – Devin Booker – Kelly Oubre – Dario Saric - Deandre Ayton
Had Deandre Ayton not faced suspension, this team would have certainly secured a playoff spot. Their performance in the Bubble was remarkable, and they could have potentially made a deeper run had they qualified for the postseason.
This squad marked the beginning of a positive shift in momentum and played a crucial role in transforming the organization’s culture.
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Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
#6) The 2014-15 Phoenix Suns (39-43)
Eric Bledsoe – Goran Dragic – Marcus Morris – Markieff Morris – Mason Plumlee
Featuring a trio of Eric Bledsoe, Goran Dragic, and Isaiah Thomas, this team aimed high following a surprising 48-win season, but ultimately fell short. The Morris twins and Plumlee were also part of the mix. It was quite the era.
This marked the beginning of a downward trajectory. A team with potential, yet plagued by flaws, started to unravel.
#7 The 2016-17 Phoenix Suns (24-58)
Eric Bledsoe – Devin Booker - TJ Warren – Jared Dudley – Tyson Chandler
Another challenging season unfolded. While it appeared that young Booker was well-supported by experienced veterans and talent, the chemistry just wasn’t there.
We endured some difficult moments…
#8) The 2015-16 Phoenix Suns (23-59)
Eric Bledsoe – Brandon Knight – PJ Tucker – Markieff Morris – Tyson Chandler
This was an unusual squad. PJ Tucker
Eric Bledsoe – Devin Booker – Josh Jackson – TJ Warren – Tyson Chandler
On paper, it appeared that there was some promise. However, everything crumbled into one of the worst scenarios imaginable. From the sentiments of “I don’t wanna be here” to Josh Jackson’s absence at a fan event, the situation was disheartening.
#10) The 2018-19 Phoenix Suns (19-63)
Isaiah Canaan – Devin Booker – Trevor Ariza – Ryan Anderson – Deandre Ayton
This season was a disaster from start to finish. The team struggled without point guards, Ariza seemed to have given up, and Anderson was noticeably past his prime. it was simply disappointing.
Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images
How do you evaluate this year’s anticipated lineup compared to the previous ones? Share your thoughts below!
Tyus Jones - Bradley Beal – Devin Booker – Kevin Durant – Jusuf Nurkic
Ranking the Phoenix Suns’ Starting Fives: A Decade of Opening Night Memories
The Evolution of the Suns’ Starting Lineups
Over the past decade, the Phoenix Suns have experienced significant changes in their roster, impacting their opening night starting fives. From standout performances to memorable moments, let’s dive into the lineup transformations that have defined the franchise during this period.
Key Components of a Successful Starting Five
Before we rank the starting fives, it’s essential to understand what makes a great starting lineup. Here are some factors that contribute to success:
- Chemistry: The ability of players to work together seamlessly.
- Star Power: Having one or more elite players who can change the game.
- Defensive Solidity: A strong defensive unit is crucial in high-stakes games.
- Versatility: Players who can perform multiple roles enhance lineup flexibility.
Ranking the Phoenix Suns’ Starting Fives from 2013 to 2023
| Season | Starting Five | Key Player Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | Eric Bledsoe, Goran Dragic, Gerald Green, Channing Frye, Miles Plumlee | Goran Dragic: Most Improved Player of the Year |
| 2014-2015 | Eric Bledsoe, Goran Dragic, Isaiah Thomas, Markieff Morris, Alex Len | Markieff Morris: Emerging as a reliable scoring option |
| 2015-2016 | Brandon Knight, Eric Bledsoe, P.J. Tucker, Markieff Morris, Tyson Chandler | Tyson Chandler: Defensive anchor in the paint |
| 2016-2017 | Eric Bledsoe, Devin Booker, P.J. Tucker, Jared Dudley, Tyson Chandler | Devin Booker: Scoring breakout |
| 2017-2018 | Josh Jackson, Devin Booker, T.J. Warren, Marquese Chriss, Tyson Chandler | Devin Booker: First 70-point game in franchise history |
| 2018-2019 | Devin Booker, T.J. Warren, Josh Jackson, Mikal Bridges, Deandre Ayton | Deandre Ayton: #1 overall pick making his debut |
| 2019-2020 | Ricky Rubio, Devin Booker, Kelly Oubre Jr., Dario Saric, Deandre Ayton | Ricky Rubio: Playmaking and leadership |
| 2020-2021 | Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder, Deandre Ayton | Chris Paul: Transformational trade |
| 2021-2022 | Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder, Deandre Ayton | Consistent playoff success |
| 2022-2023 | Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Mikal Bridges, Deandre Ayton | Kevin Durant: Championship aspirations |
Memorable Moments from Each Lineup
2013-2014: The Rise of Goran Dragic
In the 2013-2014 season, Goran Dragic led the team to a surprising success, transforming from a backup to a star. His performance earned him the NBA’s Most Improved Player award, and the chemistry with Bledsoe was palpable.
2014-2015: The Three-Guard Lineup
This season marked the advent of the three-guard lineup featuring Bledsoe, Dragic, and Thomas. Their combined scoring prowess made the Suns one of the highest-scoring teams, even if it didn’t translate into playoff success.
2015-2016: A Struggling Season
Despite having a solid starting five, the 2015-2016 season was marred by injuries and inconsistency. However, Tyson Chandler’s leadership was vital for the younger players.
2016-2017: Devin Booker’s Emergence
Devin Booker’s scoring ability shone during this season, especially in a historic game where he dropped 70 points against the Boston Celtics, marking him as a future star.
2017-2018: The Youth Movement
This season saw the rise of young talents like Josh Jackson and T.J. Warren, but it was Booker’s 70-point game that stole the spotlight. The Suns were in a rebuilding phase, which brought excitement for the future.
2018-2019: The Arrival of Deandre Ayton
With Ayton as the number one overall pick, fans were excited to see him paired with Booker. Ayton’s debut was highly anticipated, and he delivered with impressive performances throughout the season.
2019-2020: The Playmaking of Ricky Rubio
Ricky Rubio’s arrival brought stability and playmaking skills to the Suns’ backcourt. His ability to distribute the ball helped develop Booker’s and Ayton’s games further.
2020-2021: The Chris Paul Effect
The addition of Chris Paul was transformative, leading the Suns to the NBA Finals. His leadership and experience helped the younger players thrive, solidifying this lineup’s status as one of the best in franchise history.
2021-2022: Consistency and Growth
This season, the Suns continued their strong performance, showcasing their depth and resilience as they made another deep playoff run.
2022-2023: Championship Aspirations
The addition of Kevin Durant to an already strong roster raised expectations to championship levels. The blend of experience and youth makes this lineup potentially the best in Suns’ history.
Benefits of Analyzing Starting Lineups
Understanding the evolution of the Suns’ starting fives over the last decade offers valuable insights into:
- Team Development: Observing how changes in the lineup affect team dynamics and performance.
- Player Growth: Tracking the development of individual players within the context of the team.
- Strategic Insights: Learning how coaching strategies evolve with different player combinations.
Practical Tips for Following the Suns
For fans wanting to stay updated with the Phoenix Suns and their starting lineups:
- Follow Official Sources: Keep up with the Suns’ official website and social media for real-time updates.
- Engage with Fan Communities: Join forums and social media groups to discuss lineups and player performances with fellow fans.
- Watch Preseason Games: Preseason games offer insight into potential starting fives and player rotations.
Case Study: The Impact of Chris Paul
When Chris Paul joined the Suns, the team’s trajectory changed dramatically. Here are some of the measurable impacts:
- Win-Loss Record: The Suns went from a mediocre team to title contenders.
- Player Development: Young talents like Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton significantly improved under Paul’s mentorship.
- Fan Engagement: The excitement around the team grew, leading to increased attendance and viewership.
First-Hand Experience: Attending a Game
Attending a Suns game offers a unique experience for fans. The energy of the crowd, the excitement of the players, and the thrill of the game create unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to arrive early to see the starting lineup announced and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere!
