Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton sees Suns’ evolving play style as NBA moves into new era

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns’ shift in style this season is drawing attention beyond the Valley, with Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton pointing to the team as part of a league-wide trend centered on pace, pressure and positional versatility.

Jun 13, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half during game four of the 2025 NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Haliburton appeared on the Mind the Game podcast with LeBron James, where he cited the Suns as an example of how successful systems are studied and quickly replicated across the league. The approach mirrors what helped fuel Indiana’s recent postseason run.

“I watch a team like Phoenix, who I love — I love watching Phoenix play,” Haliburton said. “Their coach [Jordan Ott] came from Cleveland and that’s who we beat [in the 2025 playoffs]. I think he saw the way we played and tried to replicate that.”

Under Ott, Phoenix has leaned into a faster tempo and a more aggressive defensive approach, often using smaller, more flexible lineups instead of traditional two-big configurations.

Currently, the Suns rank eighth in the league in defensive rating (112.3), according to NBA.com.

Haliburton also recalled watching Suns guard Devin Booker during the team’s preseason trip to China, noting the changes taking place throughout the league.

Jan 23, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels (5) is defended by Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

“I remember I was watching Book [in China during preseason and he said, ‘We’re going to try to play more uptempo and pick up full court. You see what Indiana is doing. I think the game is going that way,’” Haliburton said.

The impact of that shift hasn’t been limited to Phoenix, but has been felt across the NBA. Teams that once relied heavily on size are now prioritizing speed, spacing and defensive versatility. While traditional lineup roles are sometimes sacrificed, the trade-off allows for greater overall flexibility.

Dec 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves the ball against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Haliburton’s comments reflect a broader national shift in the direction of the league, with the Suns emerging as one of the teams helping drive that change. Phoenix’s approach has kept the team competitive amid in-season challenges and placed it in a larger conversation about the future of the NBA.

The comments also highlight Booker’s willingness to adapt to evolving styles, even as an 11-year veteran. He has positioned himself as a leader attuned to league trends and willing to embrace change when necessary.

Apr 1, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for the basket against Phoenix Suns forward Oso Ighodaro (4) and guard Ryan Dunn (0) in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

As systems continue to evolve, teams must decide whether to adapt or rely on traditional approaches. Phoenix, however, has made it clear it intends to evolve with the game.

The Suns return home to face the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 8 p.m.

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Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton sees Suns’ evolving play style as NBA moves into new era

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