The Phoenix Suns dominated Game 2 of their second-round series against the Denver Nuggets, 123-98. The game was never really that close from the start, as the Suns outscored Denver in every quarter. If the Nuggets plan to progress past the second round, then they need to make some changes and fast after getting smoked twice to start the series in Phoenix.
The Suns have done a great job of containing Nikola Jokic so far. In Game 2, Jokic was able to record 24 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists. That's a decent night for the 2021 MVP winner, but in comparison to the first round, Jokic isn't quite matching the output he had against the Portland Trail Blazers. In fact, it seems the entire team has taken a hiatus against Phoenix.
Denver has to make some changes fast, otherwise this will be a quick series. The Nuggets will return home for Game 3 in what's essentially a must-win game. Here's what they need to do better.
1. Nikola Jokic needs better production from supporting cast
Nikola Jokic is the MVP winner this season and the offense goes through him. He touches the ball on every offensive possession and has carried the bulk of the work for his team. However, he needs help if Denver hopes to defeat the Suns. Michael Porter Jr. has disappeared thanks to a back injury (3-of-13 shooting in Game 2), Aaron Gordon did nothing in Game 2 (6/1/0 line), and the Nuggets' backcourt has been non-existent (nine points from the starters).
The team shot poorly on Wednesday night, only going 40.0% from the field, 32.6% beyond the arc, and 60.0% at the free-throw line. Jokic shot 9-of-17 from the field, meaning his teammates went 27-of-73 (under 37%). That's just not going to cut it against an elite Suns squad.
Getting Will Barton back is nice, but this is going to require a team effort. The hope is Porter will feel better and the role players perform better at home.
2. Nuggets must drastically improve perimeter defense
The Suns have the obvious advantage in the backcourt, and it has shown throughout this series so far. Facundo Campazzo, Austin Rivers, and Monte Morris can't keep up with Chris Paul and Devin Booker, as the Suns' star duo does whatever they want to on the court. To even out the disadvantage, the Nuggets have to find a way to slow them down.
The Nuggets have to start utilizing difference defensive coverages, including zones, to prevent the Suns' backcourt from dominating. That is likely not the ideal decision to make, but Denver has to try something new if it wants to even up the series. The current defensive game plan isn't working, as they've been blown out in both games so far.
3. Nuggets must dominate the paint
Denver has the best center in the league who just won the MVP. The paint is where Nikola Jokic thrives. He can score at will, draw the double-team, dish it out to the open man, and even get in position to grab the offensive rebound. Additionally, Aaron Gordon is an elite dunker who is great around the rim, and Michael Porter Jr. has the size to take control in the paint as well. Even Paul Millsap can get to the rack and score. With interior scoring such a strong suit for this team, then why are the Suns outscoring them in the paint?
Phoenix won the battle down low after outscoring the Nuggets there 44-36 on Wednesday night. Denver has to make this adjustment and get back to their roots. The team seems to be settling for bad shots and 3-point attempts. Look for the Nuggets to get aggressive down low in Game 3, as retaking their advantage is a must in this series.
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