3 Most Crucial Stretches of Phoenix Suns' Regular Season

The Phoenix Suns are now just over two months away from opening up the 2026-27 regular season. Phoenix is seeking to make it to the playoffs for a second consecutive season, but will face challenges in actually accomplishing the feat. Explore three of the most crucial stretches of the season in order for the Suns to make it back to the postseason below. November 18-December 2 This is one of the "easier" stretches of the Suns' season. Phoenix plays the Sacramento Kings (twice), Utah Jazz (twice), Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Los Angeles Clippers over this two-week period.  This is a major opportunity for Jordan Ott to make a statement with his new starting five. Incoming forward Miles Bridges should have ample opportunity to become more comfortable in the new offense, while the Suns' bench will be in prime position to show the on-paper advantage they have over this competition.  December 21-31 The stretch to close out 2026 is a crucial one for Phoenix to fully discover their identity.  The Suns play a West rival in the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road to start this slate before playing four of their next five games at home. The home stretch of games feature the Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and defending champion New York Knicks. This is where the Suns' ceiling as a team unit will be explored against some of the elite teams and stars in the NBA. Shooting guard Devin Booker faces pressure to be the floor-raiser that the Suns need him to be, while second-year center Khaman Maluach could come in handy for Ott in these specific matchups.  February 12-March 3 This is another defining stretch of the season. The lead-in to the All-Star break features a four-game road bash against the Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Wizards, and 76ers.  Each of these teams present different challenges to the Suns. The Hawks are athletic, lanky, and roster multiple quality shooters. The Cavaliers are a well-oiled operation who roster multiple All-Stars. The Wizards have potential to be one of the most improved teams in the entire NBA.  Phoenix must keep whatever momentum they have built up going beyond the break, as they play the Pelicans (twice), Wizards, and Brooklyn Nets in the first week back. Any sign of struggle during these four games might be the difference between securing a top-six seed and needing to reach the playoffs via the play-in.