Buy the Dip: Why it’s not time for the Phoenix Suns to panic

I hear you. You probably let out an audible sigh or groan when seeing this title given the way things are going at the moment. Phoenix Suns.

The frustrating losses are piling up and Devin Booker’s injury has fans ready to hit the panic button. “If they’re healthy” or “when their rotation settles” have been this team’s rallying cry all season long. In reality, the perfect world we envision might not come to fruition this season.

Even though they have work to do, this team is not dead yet. They will need perfect timing, health and a little luck to be able to compete.

No, this is not a denial or a refusal to address their problems. They have plenty, believe me, I know!

Here are the reasons why I’m not ready to jump ship yet And why should you BUY THE DIP!

What does “Buy the Dip” mean?

“Buying the dip” means buying an asset after its price has fallen. The belief here is that the further drop in price represents a good deal, as the “drop” is only a short-term blip and the asset, over time, is likely to rebound and increase in value.

#1 Kevin Durant will regain consciousness.

Let’s not do all this while pretending that the Durant trade was a mistake and he’s washed up. That does not please me. Is he currently in crisis (relative to his high standards)? Yes. Will it last? Unlikely.

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

The 35-year-old still has a lot to do. Every star (even at their peak) has had crises or prolonged struggles that they face throughout the season. The reckless turnovers (11 in his last two games) and scoreless nights may leave a sour taste in recent memory, but make no mistake…he’s still Kevin Durant and he’ll find out.

His life becomes a lot easier when he has the support (and gravitas) of Booker and Beal. That’s key come playoff time. Take the pressure off, move the ball, and put your superstar in favorable situations. He’ll be ready to go come playoff time.

#2 Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic could be on something

The loss to Oklahoma City wasn’t as discouraging as yesterday’s loss to the Rockets, considering the circumstances. Some positives that stand out include the performances of Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic.

Jusuf Nurkic put in a masterful performance on his return from injury. The big guy had 14 points, 31 rebounds and 4 assists in the loss to OKC.

The last four players with more than 30 boards in a game: Jusuf Nurkic, Kevin Love (2010), Charles Barkley (1996) and Dikembe Mutombo (1996).

His activity on the glass, his tenacious effort on both ends, and his ability to spread the offense with his passing ability should not be overlooked. He has his flaws, but the Bosnian big man certainly gives it his all. The effort is something you will never question on his part.

Bradley Beal looked extremely confident and sneaky, which is important when monitoring his health. He was cooking for a while and playing as efficiently as possible offensively.

Beal finished the competition with 31 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 1 block on a FG of 71%.

Last night’s 23-2 surge shows just how lethal the Suns could be, and that’s without Devin Booker. The streaky nature of this team can be maddening at times, but man, when they’re around, they can pour on fast.

#3) The “other guys” are getting there… (patience)

Yes, Phoenix has the big three that attract the attention of their opponents every night. The rest of the team slowly begins to understand their role. Growing pains were expected with this group. The turnover was massive. The inconsistent rotation due to accumulating injury reports and choppy play from marginally rotating players left the team scrambling to find solutions.

Maybe we’ll get there…patience is the key. (I know I know).

Bol Bol has a few moments. Royce O’Neale has proven to be a much-needed addition. Grayson Allen is in the midst of a career year. Eric Gordon can still get hot sometimes.

If they can finally get a cohesive sequence (when Book returns) with the actors settling into their places… I still love this team. Call me crazy.

I would start by inserting Royce O’Neale into the starting five alongside Nurkic and the big three. Grayson Allen’s move to the bench is not a punishment, but rather an attempt to shake up a team that needs it the most.

Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images

Bradley Beal said it best here: “It’s time to get started. We can’t keep talking about it.

This team has the pieces. Time is running out, but the flashes and moments have been there from time to time. It’s time to leave now.