The Phoenix Suns continue to impress as they extend their win streak to seven games with a nail-biting 114-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. The win came down to the wire, with Jusuf Nurkic hitting a crucial free throw in the final seconds to secure the victory.
Suns Find Ways to Win in Close Contests
With their victory over the Mavericks, the Suns remain undefeated in games decided by four points or less, improving to 5-0 in such close encounters. The team has shown an uncanny ability to perform in high-pressure situations, and this game was no different.
The night was filled with drama. With only 0.8 seconds remaining, Nurkic, who had already missed the first of his two free throws, made the second to give Phoenix the one-point advantage. Despite Luka Dončić’s best efforts—his 38-foot desperation shot at the buzzer just missing—the Suns managed to hold on. It was yet another thrilling finish that saw Phoenix prove their mental toughness and clutch gene.
While the win was hard-earned, the Suns have been a team that thrives in these tight moments. Whether it’s coming back from a deficit or holding off an opponent’s late surge, Phoenix has shown the poise needed to emerge victorious when it counts the most.
Suns’ Star Power Shines Despite Injuries
Kevin Durant led the Suns with 26 points, and Royce O’Neale had a breakout performance with 18 points off the bench, going a perfect 4-of-4 from beyond the arc. The contributions from O’Neale, along with double-digit efforts from all five starters, were crucial for the Suns, especially as they played without the services of Ryan Dunn, who was sidelined with an ankle injury, and Devin Booker, who played through an illness.
Despite not being at his best, Booker added 13 points and contributed 12 assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. His 12 assists helped the Suns stay efficient on offense, as Phoenix racked up 28 assists in total, with Booker leading the charge.
Meanwhile, Bradley Beal, despite battling through a lingering elbow issue, played a key role in the second half, including hitting a pivotal three-pointer during a 7-0 run in the fourth quarter. Beal’s shooting struggles (1-for-7 from three) were overshadowed by his ability to step up in critical moments.
Mavericks’ Bench Struggles Cost Them
Dallas was led by Dončić, who put up 30 points, and Kyrie Irving, who added 29, but the Mavs’ lack of bench production proved costly. While all five Dallas starters scored in double figures, their bench accounted for just nine points, compared to the Suns’ 28 bench points. That difference was significant in a game that was decided by a single point.
Injuries also plagued the Mavericks’ rotation, with key contributors like Dante Exum, Maxi Kleber, and Dereck Lively missing the game. Despite those absences, the Mavs managed to fight their way back into the game but could not capitalize on Phoenix’s own mistakes or take advantage of missed opportunities.
In contrast, the Suns showed depth and versatility. Contributions from players like O’Neale, Mason Plumlee, and Tyus Jones highlighted the team’s balance and how they can rely on more than just their star trio to close out games.
Clutch Performances: Suns’ Ability to Finish Strong
One of the standout features of the Suns’ recent success is their ability to close out games, particularly in crunch-time moments. Coach Mike Budenholzer has dialed up several key plays out of timeouts that have resulted in clutch baskets, including Beal’s three-pointer that turned the tide in the fourth quarter. That play, along with Phoenix’s ability to generate stops and capitalize on turnovers, was pivotal in their victory.
Budenholzer’s substitutions have been unconventional but effective. For example, he inserted Allen, who was struggling offensively, into the game for the final defensive possession, trusting his defense to hold off a final Dallas attempt. The decision paid off as the Mavericks couldn’t get a good look at the basket, securing the Suns’ win.
Phoenix’s Defensive Growth and Bench Strength
While much of the attention has understandably gone to Durant, Booker, and Beal, the Suns have developed a strong defensive identity this season. They limited the Mavericks to just 113 points while forcing 11 turnovers that resulted in 15 points for Phoenix. The Suns’ ability to capitalize on these turnovers has been crucial during their win streak, and it was no different against Dallas.
In addition, Phoenix has found ways to mix and match lineups to exploit their opponents’ weaknesses. O’Neale has been a key figure in the Suns’ success, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. His career-high 52.6% shooting from beyond the arc has been a pleasant surprise, as he continues to space the floor and provide defensive flexibility. Whether playing as a small-ball five or guarding opposing perimeter players, O’Neale has been a valuable piece for Phoenix.
The Road Ahead for Phoenix
With the win, the Suns improve to 8-1 on the season and look poised to continue their strong start. They’ll face the Sacramento Kings next, looking to extend their seven-game win streak. While their success has been impressive, the Suns are aware that they have room for improvement, especially in holding onto big leads. But with their ability to close out games and get contributions from all over the roster, Phoenix is becoming one of the most well-rounded teams in the NBA.
As for the Mavericks, they drop to 5-4, with Dončić and Irving continuing to impress individually, but the lack of bench production and key injuries are clearly holding them back. Dallas will look to regroup as they prepare for their next game against the Charlotte Hornets.
