DETROIT – At halftime against Detroit, the scoreboard tells only part of the story. The real separation has come on the defensive end, where the Phoenix Suns have dictated rhythm, spacing, and decision-making without Devin Booker and without Jalen Green available. On paper, that looks like a talent drain. In reality, it’s been a clarity boost. It hasn’t stopped Phoenix from being as intense as ever though on Thursday.
Jan 15, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) dribbles defended by Detroit guard Daniss Jenkins (24) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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Phoenix forced 11 turnovers in the first half, and none felt accidental. The Suns were shrinking passing windows, tagging rollers early, and closing out with discipline. Detroit’s young ball-handlers were pushed into rushed reads, and Phoenix made them pay by converting defense into early offense. That’s strategic basketball, not streaky shooting. The Suns ran into a cold streak towards the end of the half and let the Pistons right back in it.
Jan 15, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott looks on in the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Grayson Allen leading the team in scoring in the first half with 21 points shows how deep this Suns team really is. Allen’s baskets have come within the flow with spot-ups created by paint pressure, transition threes off live-ball turnovers, and decisive cuts when the defense tilted. For Suns fans, this half reinforced that defense is the only skill that doesn’t slump. When stars sit or shots cool, structure keeps you alive. Phoenix’s rotations have been crisp, the communication loud, and the effort consistent. Those traits scale nationally, not just against Detroit.
Jan 15, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen (8) dribbles in the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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Emotions were running high in the first half, after Dillon Brooks was assessed a flagrant foul after an altercation with Detroit’s John Collins. Duncan Robinson shoved Brooks, and both teams ended up exchanging words. The next half will be defined by controlling the chaos, keeping the defense on point, and finding a way to keep executing the offense without their two star scorers.
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen