With Mike Budenholzer stepping in as the new head coach of the Phoenix Suns, a shift in philosophy was inevitable. Last season, the team was stacked with offensively skilled players, yet they were guided by a coach with a more defensive mindset. This year, James Jones took a different approach by bringing in Coach Bud, an offensive strategist who can amplify the team’s strengths rather than trying to mold them into something they’re not.
Budenholzer’s arrival signals a fresh, dynamic style of play that aims to unlock the full potential of the Suns’ roster. Part of the transition has been a focus on shooting the three-ball. Oh, and has Phoenix shot the three-ball?! The team has averaged 46 three-point attempts per game in the preseason. They shot 46+ threes in a total of three games last season.
One aspect of the offense still remains uncertain. The shift towards a long-range, perimeter-focused attack has yet to be fully realized, largely due to the absence of the team’s starting center. Jusuf Nurkic has missed the first four preseason games, sidelined by an injured middle finger on his left hand.
