Mikal Bridges’ Redemption Ruins Suns Big-3’s Debut – 3 Takeaways as Nets Stun Phoenix at Home

On their return to the desert, Mikal Bridges and Cam Thomas took on their former team, Phoenix Suns. The duo contributed 21 and 24 points respectively as the Brooklyn Nets secured a 116-112 victory. Although Phoenix trailed by eight points at half-time, they mounted a comeback. They took an 88-86 lead into the fourth quarter and kept the game close initially.

However, the Nets seized a lead approximately 10 minutes before the final buzzer and successfully maintained it throughout the stretch. With the win, the Nets continue their successful stretch, marking seven wins in their last nine games.

1. Mikal Bridges stings Kevin Durant to avenge betrayal

In the game, Mikal Bridges got the bigger stick than Kevin Durant, despite KD scoring 27 points to Bridges’ 21. Mikal Bridges was originally part of the Suns’ offer to acquire Durant, making his victory in this matchup particularly significant. Transitioning from being a beloved player in the eyes of Suns’ fans to a key figure in a new landscape with greater responsibilities brought a unique challenge for Bridges.

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The win vividly illustrates how Mikal is flourishing in his evolving role, especially during recent successful runs. Conversely, Kevin Durant and his team are still in the process of figuring things out, despite boasting a backcourt unlike any other in the league. As the game marked the debut of the Suns’ big three – Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker – the victory became even more satisfying for Bridges.

2. Suns Big-3 have a major problem on their hands

After addressing their big man issue in trading De’Andre Ayton, the Suns face a new concern with Bradley Beal joining the mix. It echoes a recent narrative seen with the Los Angeles Clippers. In the game, Beal scored 14 points, and considering it was his first game in a while, expectations are that his scoring will increase over time. However, the unique concern revolves around the minutes Beal played.

In the contest, Beal logged 34 minutes. Given the game’s intensity and the Suns’ constant struggle to keep up with their offense, it appeared to be more of an in-game decision rather than a pre-planned strategy. The Suns need to refine their rotations and execute efficiently to manage the minutes of all key players.

3. Will the Suns Big-3 have an ego clash?

The NBA has evolved to a point where every player can contribute offensively to a team’s success. However, the Suns boast three players who can independently shoulder an entire franchise’s load. In the absence of a dedicated point guard, Devin Booker naturally assumes command of the ball. Given his existing chemistry with Durant, Beal can seamlessly navigate through a lesser spotlight.

Teams with stacked talent have historically faced challenges, potentially leading to their downfall. With that, the Suns must address the intricacies surrounding their star players to avoid becoming a modern-day version of such scenarios.

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