Suns flopped when it mattered most in play-in push

The latest blow came on Tuesday, when the Suns suffered a crushing 133-95 defeat to the Golden State Warriors. Once again missing star forward Kevin Durant due to an ankle injury, Phoenix struggled to match the intensity of a Warriors team led by Stephen Curry, who scored 25 points in the victory. 

The Suns offense was disjointed, and their defense was nonexistent, highlighting just how far the team has fallen from the early season expectations.

A key factor in the Suns' downfall has been their defensive struggles. Since the All-Star break, Phoenix has posted the second-worst defensive rating in the league at 122.2, contributing significantly to its inability to secure crucial wins during this stretch. 

The Suns defense has allowed easy scoring opportunities for opponents, and with injuries mounting, they have not been able to adjust. Durant’s ongoing ankle issues, which have sidelined him for crucial stretches, have exacerbated the problem, leaving the team without its defensive anchor.

The Suns’ collapse has sparked a broader discussion about their future. With the high expectations surrounding their trio of Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, many have labeled them one of the worst superteams in NBA history. 

The team’s failure to break into the play-in spots despite having a clear path has raised questions about head coach Mike Budenholzer's job security and the team’s long-term direction.

With just three games remaining, Phoenix's season is effectively over. What was once a promising playoff run has now turned into a bitter disappointment, leaving fans wondering what’s next for the Suns.