Keeping up with Phoenix’s pace
The one statistical category that the Suns rank well in is pace, again per Hollinger’s Team Stats. The Suns averaged 101.8 possessions per game, over four more than the Bulls.
Phoenix’s best chance of winning will probably come in outrunning Chicago, pushing the ball in transition and forcing Chicago to play their game. With Eric Bledsoe at the point of attack, and young, spry players around him, like Devin Booker, T.J. Warren and Marquese Chriss, Phoenix has the tools to play get down the court for easy buckets.
The Bulls can do a few things right to limit the Suns ability to score on the break.
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First, which is easier said than done, is making shots. If Phoenix has to take the ball out from out-of-bounds, it gives Chicago a little more time to organize themselves defensively. The Bulls tend to be a little lackadaisical when retreating on defense. (I’m looking at you, Dwyane Wade.)
But, effort and good shots should suppress the Suns’ attack slightly.
The Bulls generally don’t turn the ball over a lot, which helps limit easy breaks for Phoenix. Jimmy Butler will likely play, and Dwyane Wade is day-to-day, according to the Chicago Tribune‘s K.C. Johnson, so Michael Carter-Williams’ minutes (and turnovers) might be limited.