Former basketball star Charles Barkley has once again stirred the pot with his controversial opinions. As NBA fans eagerly await the 2023-24 season, Barkley has shared his list of contenders with NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole. To the surprise of Phoenix Suns supporters, the Suns didn’t make the cut.
Barkley did acknowledge the unpredictability of predicting outcomes so early, but he couldn’t resist voicing his thoughts on potential contenders. He expressed admiration for the Denver Nuggets and their star player Nikola Jokic, highlighting their impressive achievements last season. However, the Suns were notably absent from his list, leaving fans disappointed.
The Lakers, on the other hand, made it onto Barkley’s radar as they have made significant improvements to their roster. The acquisition of new talents and surprise teams entering the mix has further intrigued Barkley. He even mentioned the Boston Celtics’ interesting move to bring in Kristaps Porziņģis.
One of the teams Barkley considers a possible title favorite is the Philadelphia 76ers. However, their chances hinge on the resolution of the ongoing James Harden trade situation, according to the Hall of Famer.
Critics argue that Barkley has overlooked the Phoenix Suns unfairly, especially after the team’s impressive roster overhaul during the summer. The Suns managed to secure the services of Bradley Beal, a game-changing addition to their already star-studded starting lineup. Furthermore, they bolstered their supporting cast with valuable role players.
Contrary to Barkley’s views, the Suns have arguably had the best offseason among all the teams mentioned. With their rejuvenated roster, they are poised to pose a significant threat in the upcoming season. The departure of Chris Paul raised concerns about their ageing core, but the Suns countered this by bringing in younger, talented players like Yuta Watanabe, along with seasoned veterans like Eric Gordon.
The Suns’ revamped lineup now appears stronger than ever, at least on paper. They have addressed their roster’s weaknesses and fortified their strengths, making them a formidable force to reckon with in the NBA. While Barkley’s opinion holds weight, the Suns’ actions may speak louder in the court.
The Phoenix Suns have made remarkable strides to establish themselves as legitimate contenders in the NBA. Despite Charles Barkley’s skepticism, their well-planned roster changes and promising acquisitions indicate a bright future for the Suns. As the 2023-24 NBA season unfolds, fans eagerly await to witness the team’s potential unfold on the hardwood.
