Suns’ Unexpected Surge Fueled By Breakout Performances

The Phoenix Suns have quickly become one of the early surprises of the NBA season, entering December with a 13–9 record that few projected after a turbulent offseason. Their latest statement came in the form of a dominant road win over the Los Angeles Lakers, a game in which Phoenix leaned not on its stars, but on unlikely standouts. Dillon Brooks electrified the crowd with 33 points, while Collin Gillespie added 28 points, including eight three-pointers, in a performance that stunned both fans and analysts.

Gillespie’s emergence has been one of the Suns’ most unexpected developments. Once viewed as a depth piece, he has delivered multiple high-impact moments, including a recent game-winning shot against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His confidence and shot-making have added a new layer to Phoenix’s offense, giving the team a reliable spark during stretches when injuries or rotation changes have tested their depth.

Within the organization, however, Gillespie’s ascent has not been viewed as a surprise. Veteran guard Devin Booker has been quick to highlight the behind-the-scenes work that laid the foundation for the breakout. Teammates and coaches alike have pointed to the consistency of his preparation, praising his professionalism and competitive edge during practices and offseason workouts.

The Suns’ unexpected contributors have become essential to a team many expected to struggle following Kevin Durant’s departure and Jalen Green’s minimal availability. Instead, Phoenix has found resilience in unlikely places, reshaping expectations for what this roster might achieve.

1. Breakout Guard Gains Internal Confidence

Collin Gillespie’s rise has unfolded rapidly, but inside the team facility, the signs were evident long before the season tipped off. Booker emphasized that his teammate’s strong start is a direct result of tireless offseason work. According to the three-time All-Star, the guard consistently impressed in open-gym sessions and scrimmages, displaying the poise and accuracy that have now translated to regular-season success. The guard’s recent game-winner against Minnesota served as a national introduction, but Booker noted that those clutch moments reflect the confidence Gillespie built throughout the summer. His ability to stretch the floor with deep shooting has allowed Phoenix to reshape parts of its offense, particularly when the bench unit is on the court. Gillespie’s efficiency has also helped stabilize the team during stretches without Green, who has appeared in only one game due to injury. The added shooting and ball-handling have eased the burden on Booker, allowing the Suns to play with more pace and spacing. As his role continues to expand, Gillespie’s consistency will be key, but Phoenix’s coaching staff believes his preparation habits make him a reliable contributor moving forward.

2. Dillon Brooks Provides Veteran Spark

While Gillespie has provided the breakout story, Dillon Brooks has supplied the edge. The veteran wing poured in 33 points in the win over the Lakers, reaffirming his reputation as a relentless competitor with the ability to swing momentum in big games. His physical style and emotional energy have helped shape the team’s identity during an uncertain early season stretch. Brooks has also embraced a leadership role, particularly with younger teammates. His endorsement of Gillespie — even bestowing the nickname “Villain Jr.” — highlighted his belief in the guard’s toughness and approach. Brooks said Gillespie earned that label through daily effort, proving throughout training camp that he belonged not just on the roster, but in the rotation. His own offensive contributions have been crucial as well. With injuries and roster turnover affecting the Suns’ structure, Brooks’ willingness to take on scoring responsibility has relieved pressure on Booker and the coaching staff. His improved efficiency and defensive presence continue to set the tone in close games. As Phoenix navigates a season of transition, Brooks’ mix of leadership and production has become one of the team’s most valuable stabilizing forces.

3. Exceeding Expectations Despite Setbacks

Entering the season, many analysts expected Phoenix to take a step back following the departure of Kevin Durant. The uncertainty surrounding Jalen Green’s health only heightened those concerns, raising questions about the team’s depth and overall competitiveness. Instead, the Suns have found unexpected solutions across the roster. Brooks and Gillespie have become central figures in that resurgence, offering both energy and consistency. Their emergence has allowed the Suns to play a more balanced, opportunistic brand of basketball, with multiple players capable of carrying the offense on any given night. The team’s improved spacing and effort level have been evident on both ends of the floor. The Suns’ ability to remain competitive despite limited availability from key players speaks to the adaptability of the coaching staff. Rotations have evolved throughout the season, with different lineups contributing depending on matchups and game flow. That flexibility has helped Phoenix withstand early challenges. While the season remains young, Phoenix’s performance through the opening stretch suggests a team far more resilient — and far more dangerous — than many anticipated.