So you mean the Suns went 3-1, and their reward is playing two of the worst teams in the Western Conference? In games that count towards their schedule? Remind me…what’s the incentive for trying to win the NBA Cup? Harder competition and a hat?
Now, I know there is a contingent out there that is pro-NBA Cup. That likes the early season engagement, the bright courts, the playing to the buzzer, and the competition that ensues. My question to you is, doing my best possible Michael Scott impression, “Why are you the way that you are?”
I’m sure there are those out there saying, “John, why wouldn’t we want to see them play against the Thunder? To be the best you gotta beat the best. Why avoid playing them?” Bring on the Thunder! But let’s do it in the postseason. You know, that thing that matters.
I think back to last season, when the Suns made the In-Season Tournament but went 0-2. Imagine a world where they didn’t make it and were rewarded with easier completion. Two more wins? They could’ve been the fifth seed in the postseason instead of the sixth, and who knows what sliding door that would’ve opened.
So shucks. Darn. Drats. They didn’t make the NBA Cup.
But last night, they did what we wanted them to do, especially against a team that owned us last year. They won. And their reward? It’s better than any New Era hat. It’s a chance to improve their record against weak teams and a week off to boot. That’s right. The Suns have a back-to-back in Florida this weekend and don’t play again until Saturday the 15th. Plenty of time to rest up.
Now, what’s the point of the NBA Cup?
