Suns-Thunder takeaways: There doesn't appear to be an answer for SGA

In the opening minutes of the first quarter, Ighodaro missed two point-blank chances at the rim, the first after a smart screen-and-slip and the second failing to convert over the much smaller Gilgeous-Alexander. At the other end, he appeared out of his depth physically against Isaiah Hartenstein and picked up two early fouls that forced Ott to turn to Khaman Maluach, the seldom-used rookie big, to attempt to stabilize the Suns.

Maluach’s first action was converting an emphatic two-handed alley-oop, quite the contrast to Ighodaro’s inability to make good on his clear-cut opportunities. Maluach took a wild 3-point attempt in the second quarter during a pivotal stretch of back-and-forth play, but otherwise offered solid output, being the preferred option down the stretch and finishing a team-best +10. Ighodaro had a better second half — but still finished -23, worst among all starters. A "better second half" won't cut it against an OKC team of this caliber.

What can the Suns do?

Headed back to Phoenix in a 2-0 hole, it might be time for the Suns to consider a lineup change. One of their calling cards during an impressive season has been their roster flexibility, with multiple plug-and-play options that can peform when called upon.

Veteran forward Royce O'Neale, with 50 games of playoff experience under his belt, showcased why he deserves a nod heading into Game 3.

O'Neale has built a reputation for years as a switchable, hard-nosed, stable 3&D type, able to adequately space the floor, be a positive connector and also defend at a high level. Among players who took at least five 3s per game and appeared in 45 regular-season games, O'Neale posted the NBA's ninth-best 3-point percentage at 40.8.

He seized his opportunity off the bench Wednesday night, scoring 11 points in 17 first-half minutes, hitting all three of his perimeter looks and adding five rebounds, two assists and a steal. (He finished the game with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals.) In addition to his ability to guard multiple positions, a much-needed skillset against the best team in basketball, there should be a place for O'Neale — who started 67 games this year — to reclaim his spot.