Apr 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward
Markieff Morris(11) dribbles against the Utah Jazz during the second half at US Airways Center. The Suns won 87-85. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Phoenix Suns
Last Year’s Outcome: 39-43, Lottery
Best-Case Scenario: First Round Playoff Exit
Why: Despite the chaos that has been the Phoenix Suns off-season, the roster is still talented. Depending on how the Markieff Morris situation shakes out, the Suns have the talent to creep into the coveted eighth playoff spot in the West. Brandon Knight and Eric Bledsoe lead a potent backcourt duo and Tyson Chandler serves as the defensive anchor. If Chandler can repeat his past success, this team has the pieces to hop into the playoffs.
Worst-Case Scenario: 29-Win Season
Why: No team wants to enter the off-season with a black cloud above their heads. That is exactly what Phoenix is doing. The Morris disaster has shown no signs of dissipating and his trade value has plummeted. Their failure with multiple point guards last season was one thing, this is a whole other issue. If Chandler regresses and Knight and Bledsoe don’t click, the Suns may blow it up, which leads to a trip to the NBA Lottery – again.
What Will Probably Happen: 36-Win Season
Why: The issues in Phoenix continue to grow and in a competitive conference that can spell disaster. The team’s talent alone will get them over thirty wins, but there is just not enough there right now to believe that they will make the playoffs. It is a shame that these things happen, but the misfortune of the Suns is what will ultimately lead to another disappointing season in the Valley of the Sun.
Next: Portland Trail Blazers