Teams rarely make the transition from one coach to another without a few hiccups, and the Suns are no exception. After swapping Mike D'Antoni for Terry Porter, the Suns have struggled to find their rhythm. Despite a 11-7 record, they've won just three games in their last seven, with two of their wins coming at home against patsies like Oklaoma City and Minnesota. Amare Stoudemire complained about Porter's offense in an interview published last week, and yesterday Porter voiced his frustration with the entire team after a lackluster practice. From Dan Bickley of the Arizona Republic:
"In the locker room!" coach Terry Porter bellowed. "Everybody!"Porter didn't reveal the exact details of his locker room talk, but he did tell reporters afterward that he's contemplating a change. Up until now the team has put an emphasis on slowing the tempo and establishing the post, which is a huge departure from the free-flowing offense of the past. Slowing the pace has helped the defense (they're allowing 5.3 fewer points a game) but not as much as it's hurt their offense (they're scoring 9.5 fewer points).
Off they went, silently and obediently, bracing for the conversation ahead.
It was an impressive show of authority from the new man in charge. It was prompted by a shoddy practice before the team left for New Orleans but could've been directed at any number of nuisances, from the dissenting voices in the locker room to the recent and reckless comments by Amaré Stoudemire.
Instead of forcing the issue, Porter admitted he's inclined to once again let Steve Nash be Steve Nash, allowing his trusted point guard to create as he sees fit instead of pounding the ball inside. Will this help put Stoudemire at ease?
Only time will tell, but I think it will. Shaq may lose a few touches, but Stoudemire thrives in an up-tempo offense. And even if Porter doesn't want to admit it, keeping Stoudemire happy should be a huge priority -- the Suns' long-term success hinges on Stoudemire deciding to re-sign in 2010 just as much as Cleveland's hinges on LeBron James.
Comments (Page 1 of 1)
First of all I'm a Shaq Guy but I'd have to be the first to admit he doesn't need to have the offense run thru him on this team at this stage in his carreer. Amare works well off Nash and if that's not going to continue consider him gone in 2010 and then the Suns will suck like they did before Barkley arrived!!!!!!!!!
Remember Amare was not happy under D'Antonio either. The bigger issue this go round is that Nash is not happy with Porter's style of play. They got rid of Marion last season to calm Amare down. Did not work and now Porter is feeling the heat and if he does not change he and Kerr will both be gone.
I say let phoenix do what they do best -- which is run. I would not always start Shaq, but would have him come in off the bench, either when the up-tempo isn't working, to have a defensive "big" inside or to give the Sun's "runners" a rest. Besides, Shaq isn't 25. He should ALWAYS be fresh and a force in the game and shouldn't usually have to play more than 20 minutes per game -- if that much. Starting is OVERRATED; it should all be about WINNING and doing WHATEVER IT TAKES.
First of all, Shaq is not what he used to be! You have to admit watching him play is somewhat embarassing to see; he can't rebound, he can't jump and is slow off the block. If he can't play 20mins that pitiful. I think Phoenix needs to unload him while they have and opportunity to do so. Second, Steve Nash is an awesome pt guard, but play tough D on him and he does not raise his game! He seems to wilt under pressure. Amare can jump out the gym and should get at least 3.0blk/game, but too lazy. Last, Championships are won w/ great D and intensity(KG! Nuff said)
Out
Drew