The Phoenix Suns are set to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of their playoff series, highlighting a strategic divide that may influence their game plan. The outcome could significantly impact the series' direction.
Key points
Phoenix Suns prepare for Game 2 against Oklahoma City Thunder
Strategic divide could shape game plan
Game 2 may influence the series' tone
Dillon Brooks is a key player for the Suns
Phoenix SunsOklahoma City ThunderDillon Brooks
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) looks at the scoreboard after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) looks at the scoreboard after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
OKLAHOMA CITY â The Phoenix Suns are preparing for Game 2 of their playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but a clear strategic divide has emerged that could shape their game plan and the tone for the rest of the series.
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott watches his team play agaisnt the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second quarter during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
After a loss in Game 1, Suns head coach Jordan Ott made his stance clear on what he doesnât want his team to do as the series goes on.
Q&A
What is the significance of Game 2 between the Phoenix Suns and Oklahoma City Thunder?
Game 2 is crucial as it could set the tone for the rest of the playoff series between the two teams.
Who are the key players to watch in the Suns vs. Thunder playoff series?
Key players include Dillon Brooks from the Suns and the overall performance of the Thunder's roster.
How did the Phoenix Suns perform in Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder?
The Suns faced the Thunder in Game 1, which revealed a strategic divide that may affect their approach in Game 2.
What strategies might the Phoenix Suns employ in Game 2 against the Thunder?
The Suns may adjust their game plan based on the strategic divide observed in Game 1 to improve their chances of winning.
Related Articles
Sports
Chelsea: No shots, no tackles for 30 minutes, out-run in 34 consecutive matches
Chelsea faces another defeat, losing 3-0 to Brighton, with no shots for 30 minutes.
Sky Sports··1 min read
NFL
Dolphins' new regime expected to show traits during 2026 NFL Draft
Dolphins' new regime to showcase strategy in 2026 NFL Draft.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NBA·Recap
James shines for Lakers while Wembanyama concussed
LeBron James leads Lakers to victory while Wembanyama suffers concussion
BBC Sport··1 min read
Soccer·Feature
Al-Khelaifi cumple hoy 800 partidos al frente del PSG
Hoy, Nasser Al-Khelaifi cumple 800 partidos al frente del PSG desde 2011.
Marca··1 min read
NFL
Saints need to hope that Ohio State star falls in draft to give Tyler Shough a perfect option with Chris Olave
Saints hope to draft Ohio State star Carnell Tate for Tyler Shough
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Alec Ingold discusses role with Chargers in 2026
Alec Ingold discusses his transition to the Chargers for 2026 after leaving the Dolphins.
See every story in Sports â including breaking news and analysis.
âWe canât iso this team,â he said, according to Arizona Centralâs Duane Rankin. âWe canât hold the ball against this team. We canât take tough twoâs all night against this team.â
Ottâs message reflects concern about Oklahoma Cityâs defensive pressure and transition attack, which thrives when opponents slow down and become predictable. However, forward Dillon Brooks described a very different approach heading into Tuesdayâs matchup, centered on attacking Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives around Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the second half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
âIâm going to iso Shai when I get a chance to,â Brooks said. âWhy not? ⊠I just like the matchup⊠Iâll find a way make him use his legs, use his hands, use his mind on that defensive end, most of the time, heâs going to break down and then you can go out and make plays.â
The contrast is evident, with Phoenix emphasizing ball movement and discipline, while Oklahoma City may lean into isolation opportunities to exploit any weakness. Brooks has his own strategy, intentionally forcing a high-usage offensive player like Gilgeous-Alexander to expend energy on defense.
While itâs not clear if these two different approaches will disrupt the teamâs overall tempo, it does give fans something to watch in Game 2. If Phoenix sticks to Ottâs plan, expect quicker decisions and an emphasis on ball movement. If Brooks goes a different direction, expect a chess match between two dynamic players.
Game 2 will be about adjustments, but it will also test whether leadership and players are on the same page as the Suns head back into Oklahoma City, aiming to return home with a tied series instead of falling behind 0-2.
Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) goes up for a basket beside Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the second half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The Suns and Thunder face off in Game 2 on Wednesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
