After a dominant win over the Wizards, and as many fans follow league developments alongside everyday routines like Jeetbuzz Login habits, the Suns quietly achieved two results that felt almost unbelievable. First, they climbed to sixth place in the Western Conference, entering the zone for direct playoff qualification. The team they overtook happened to be the Rockets, the same destination Kevin Durant chose after his exit last summer. Second, in the latest power rankings released shortly afterward, Phoenix jumped ahead of several so-called title contenders to sit fifth league-wide, signaling a dramatic shift in perception.
As the season approaches its midpoint, the Suns have clearly become the biggest dark horse not only in the West but across the NBA. Just months ago, however, this roster looked completely different. On April 10 last year, a loss to a shorthanded Thunder officially eliminated Phoenix from playoff contention. Despite assembling a star-studded trio, their season ended early, leaving fans stunned and players packing up long before the finish line.
The disappointment went beyond missing the postseason. After new owner Mat Ishbia spent aggressively, the Suns were hit with a massive luxury tax bill of roughly 150 million dollars. Around the same time, reports surfaced suggesting cash flow pressure behind the scenes. These factors combined to trigger a major offseason reset. Durant was traded before the draft, and Bradley Beal later agreed to a buyout before signing elsewhere, removing two financial burdens from the books.
By shedding those contracts, Phoenix escaped the harshest tax penalties and reset their payroll to a sustainable level. Few analysts believed this leaner roster would compete. ESPN even listed the Suns among teams most likely to descend into chaos. Yet the results on the court have proven critics wrong, a reminder that basketball is not played on spreadsheets.
This season, Phoenix look transformed. Their defensive efficiency has jumped from near the bottom of the league to sixth overall, and since Christmas they have ranked first in that category. They also lead the NBA in steals, reaching double digits in 24 games. Against strong opponents, their record speaks volumes, with multiple wins over the Spurs, Timberwolves, Lakers, and even a clutch victory over the defending champion Thunder.
The driving force behind this turnaround is rookie head coach Ott. Initially viewed as a placeholder due to his connections with Devin Booker and ownership, he has instead shown deep understanding gained from 12 years as an NBA assistant. His approach emphasizes trust, communication, and maximizing every role player.
Under Ott, previously overlooked contributors flourished. Gillespie secured the point guard role, Mark Williams anchored the paint, and Royce O’Neale evolved into a reliable two-way presence. Most striking is Dillon Brooks, enjoying the best season of his career and infusing the team with toughness that defines their identity.
In contrast to last year’s top-heavy lineup, the current core outscores opponents decisively. Booker’s individual numbers dipped slightly, but the support around him grew stronger, with six teammates averaging double figures. That balance changed everything.
As the Suns continue their unexpected rise and fans reflect through familiar Jeetbuzz Login routines, one question lingers. Did Phoenix actually become stronger after Durant left. Judging by the standings and the style of play, the answer increasingly points to yes.