Suns biggest weakness exposed in 127-125 loss to Nuggets
Mar 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) against Phoenix Suns forward Oso Ighodaro (11) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images PHOENIX – Tuesday was the Phoenix Suns to showcase on national television how serious of a playoff competitor they are against the Denver Nuggets.
The results were mixed. Despite the roster depletion, Phoenix was able to keep it close till the final buzzer against arguably the best player in the world in Nikola Jokic. However, the Suns lack of paint presence and defensive rebounding gifted Denver the 127-125 win.
The Nuggets ended with 14 offensive rebounds for 15 second chance points and 56 paint points. Jokic finished the game with a dominate 21 points, 17 rebounds and 17 assists. The 31-year-old faced little resistance in the post and illustrates the Suns’ biggest weakness ahead of next month’s playoffs.
Mar 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) against Phoenix Suns forward Royce O’Neale (00) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Can Suns fix rebounding issue?
Tuesday’s loss is worse when looking at Denver’s average in the rebounding department. The Nuggets are t-27th for offensive rebounds at 9. 5 and 19th in total rebounds with 43.