Tough loss for Suns, quick turnaround for much-needed win
Mar 23, 2011, 4:44 PM | Updated: 4:49 pm
For the Phoenix Suns, the triple-OT loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night meant only one thing.
It counted as a loss in the standings.
Time is running out for the Suns.
By their head coach’s expectations they can only lose three more times and have a shot at the playoffs — and that might not even be enough.
Suns coach Alvin Gentry talked to Sports 620 KTAR’s Gambo & Ash last week about the finish they would need in order to make a run at the last playoff spot in the Western Conference.
“Realistically we’re going to have to go 12-4,” Gentry said. “Even at 12-4 I’m not sure we could even get in the playoffs.”
Since those comments the Suns have gone 2-1.
With 13 games remaining the Suns would need to go 10-3 over their final 13 games.
Eight of those 13 are against teams .500 or better. Six of those games are on the road, including a five-game road trip.
Following the marathon loss to the Lakers the Suns will have to turn around and host the Toronto Raptors Wednesday night.
While it is still conceivably possible to make the playoffs, the Suns have to treat it as if they are already in must-win playoff games.
