Predicting the First 10 Games for the Phoenix Suns

The Suns aren't what they use to be. With an aging core and a lack of young talents, the Suns won't even match their mediocre record last year. But with Steve Nash running the show, fans can always expect an entertaining display of offense. 

The Suns have a relatively easy first 10 games. We will take a look at which ones the Suns will lose and which ones the Suns will upset a tougher opponent. 

Dec. 26 vs New Orleans Hornets

The Hornets underwent major transformation this summer. It's still to early too judge whether the change will do the Hornets any favors. The departure of Chris Paul brought Eric Gordon, Chris Kaman and Al-Farouq Aminu, all solid players in this league. But they will need time to mesh, and the two preseason games weren't nearly enough for any chemistry to develop. New Orleans will start Jarrett Jack at point guard, who won't cause much damage. One thing the Suns will have to worry about is the frontcourt combination of Chris Kaman and Emeka Okafor. These two players will give the Hornets a big advantage on the glass.

But overall, it's a winnable game for the Suns. 

Prediction: Suns win by more than 10 points. 

Dec. 28 vs Philadelphia 76ers

This is a tough game. The 76ers have a very young and athletic team, pretty much the exact opposite of the Suns. The Sixers' best player, Andre Iguodala isn't much of a scorer, but he is a top notch defender. And with Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner and Thaddeus Young running and gunning, the Suns will have a hard time keeping up defensively. But Phoenix does have an advantage with Marcin Gortat going against the likes of Spencer Hawes, Marreese Speights and the undersized Elton Brand. 

Tough game and likely a tough lost for the Suns.

Prediction: Suns lose by less than 10 points. 

Dec. 30 at New Orleans Hornets

The Suns plays the Hornets again only four days after their first encounter. The chemistry among the Hornets' new teammates is still in development and will continue to hurt their play. Optimistically, the Suns should beat the Hornets like last time. But realistically, the Suns will face a tougher battle at New Orleans' home floor.  

This game can go either way.

Prediction: Suns win by less than five points. 

Dec. 31 at Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder is a potential NBA Champion with two superstars and some solid role players. The Suns, on the other hand, will barely make the playoffs, if at all. Not to mention this is the second game of a back-to-back. This game will be a nightmare for the Suns. 

It will take a miracle to beat the Thunder.

Prediction: Suns lose by more than 15 points. 

Jan. 2 vs Golden State Warriors

Whenever the Suns and Warriors get together, the fans are guaranteed a spectacular display of fast paced offense. This year won't be any different. Nash will be up against his clone Stephen Curry, and Shannon Brown and Monta Ellis are two of the most athletic undersized shooting guards there is.

Whoever wins the glass will win the game.

Prediction: Warriors win by more than five points. Both teams score more than 115 points.    

Jan. 4 at Dallas Mavericks

Most people will go with the Mavericks on this one. But don't forget this is a rivalry game. In a rivalry game, the difference in skill and talent level won't be the sole determinant of the victor. Just like during March Madness, ranking doesn't really matter. Hustle and over-performing will be the theme.

With that said, the Mavericks is still much more talented.

Prediction: Suns win by less than five points in overtime.

Jan. 6 vs Portland Trailblazers

Even after losing Brandon Roy and Grey Oden this summer, the Trailblazers still found a way to improve by signing Raymond Felton and Jamal Crawford. Wesley Matthews and Nicolas Batum will showoff their improvements during the summer. Suns don't have good matchups in any position. 

The Suns get beat on size, speed, and athleticism. 

Prediction: Trailblazers win by more than 10 points. 

Jan. 8 vs Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks will play the Clippers the night before, and they will be exhausted defending Blake Griffin and Chris Paul. Milwaukee will be noticeably sluggish and won't be able keep up with the Suns' fast-paced style. 

Easy game for the Suns, should be an effortless victory.

Prediction: Suns win by more than 15 points. 

Jan. 10 vs Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers really screwed up this offseason. But they are still very talented and experienced. Kobe is 33 years old, but he can still put up 40 points on any given night. Along with Gasol and Bynum's size, the Suns will have to pick their poison. Either defend one-on-one down low and let Kobe have his way or double Kobe and let Gasol and Bynum hurt them in the paint. 

Very tough game. Toughest game in this 10 game stretch. 

Prediction: Lakers win by less than 10 points. 

Jan. 12 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavaliers have this year No. 1 pick in Kyrie Irving. But he's no John Wall or Derrick Rose. He will struggle in his first few games, and the lack of talent in Cleveland won't help him either. Nash will dominate the Cavs, and Gortat should beat anyone the Cavs put on him.

Very winnable game. But the young Cavaliers can put up a fight.

Prediction: Suns win by more than 10 points. 

Predicted Record After 10 Games

The Suns will be 5-5 through the first 10 games. A respectable record and realistic goal for the aging Suns.