The Suns’ Kevin Durant reveals the missing piece in the embarrassing loss to the Cavs

The Phoenix Suns can rely on Kevin Durant to score against any kind of defense. From man-to-man, changing defense or zone, Durant can figure it out. However, it didn’t rub off on the rest of the team. In Monday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, they rolled out a strategy unknown to the franchise.

They played zone defense through the last three quarters, which was The Cavs’ defensive game plan that shut down the Suns. The 118-92 victory was highlighted by the defense, as it was the first time since Dec. 27 that Phoenix scored fewer than 100 points.

Regardless, that’s not the standard for Durant, his teammates and coaches. He explained to AZCentral’s Duane Rankin after the game how the zone defense works presented a new challenge.

“It’s a tough defense to score if you think you’re going to get an open shot without pressing the question,” Durant said. “We could have driven a little more, but we don’t play against the zone every game.” We don’t have a zone package yet.”

Throughout the game, Cleveland took a series of looks at Durant. In the first quarter, they tried to plan the defense, which did not work well. However, in the fourth quarter, they set up a zone defense that prevented him from getting out of the high post.

He was a great playmaker when he established himself in the post. Defenses are distracted on him when he dunks the ball and leaves other players open. Still, the Suns’ inability to handle zone defense is cause for concern. After all, before Monday’s game, the Cavs had just the 13th-best defense in the league, allowing 112.1 points per game.

The Cavs’ game plan disoriented the Suns and Kevin Durant

In the Suns’ fourth game of a five-game road trip, the Cavs provided a tough challenge. They are the best team in the NBA since the beginning of the season. Even with Bradley Beal is available for the Suns’ showdown with the Cavsit didn’t matter. Plus, he was getting back into rhythm.

Once again, the Phoenix Big 3 had a different defensive look at them, and it left them confused. For example, Devin Booker thought Cleveland had it figured out. He also explained to Rankin after Monday’s game Fr some of the movies they watched in anticipation of the game.

“We were watching the Minnesota game,” Booker said. “We’ve seen them use it and it’s been effective for them.” He just slowed us down a little bit.”

However, that game against the Timberwolves was a 124-117 victory. Monday’s contest was more sloppy, but featured the same zone style of defense. Guys like Booker and Durant often use the mid-range in their games. Although they are elite scorers in that tier, they are even better playmakers.

As a result, players like Tyus Jones couldn’t be the playmakers he wanted to be. He scored 11 of his 13 points in the first quarter, making open 3-pointers. However, he scored only two points in the last three quarters. Most of it was due to the zone defense on Durant and Booker.

Jones shared what specifically the Cavs are doing make it a difficult task for a misdemeanor in Phoenix.

“They were showing a big crowd to Book, and K. Lov man came in, sitting in the paint. I just had to be ready to shoot from behind.” I don’t think we put enough pressure on the paint.”

The Suns need to finish the road trip with a win

Going 3-2 on the road isn’t what they wanted, but it’s progress. After that The Suns acquired Nick Richardsthere seems to be a new identity within the team. Despite the trade, the team was outscored 50-34 and 15-1 on the offensive glass. Again, the team won’t solve their problems overnight.

However, something has to happen soon if they want to make the playoffs. The Suns will next play on Wednesday, when they will meet the Brooklyn Nets. That will end a five-game road trip, their longest of the season. Securing a win against Durant’s old team would be especially sweet.