The trio of Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and Deandre Ayton did wonders for the Phoenix Suns last season. They went all the way to the NBA Finals, but couldn’t finish the job. Regardless, it was a great season and as a result, fans have high expectations from the team in the 2021-22 NBA season as well.
Despite being one of the favorites to come out of the Western Conference, so far the Suns haven’t been at the top of their game. In the first 6 games of the season, they have won 3 and lost the same amount of games as well. With a record of 3-3, they currently hold the eighth seed in the West.
But what is the reason behind it? Most probably it is due to Booker’s struggles. He is one of the most skilled scorers in the league, but so far he is playing like a shell of himself. He is averaging 21.8 PPG while shooting 40.5% from the field. To make things worse, he is shooting a career-low 27.8% from the 3-point line.
Booker’s struggles could be due to the league opting for a different ball this year. Previously, the league was using the Spalding ball. But in the 2021-22 NBA season, the official ball is the new Wilson ball.
Suns reporter Kellan Olson recently revealed D-Book’s thoughts on playing with the new ball.
“Devin Booker said the biggest difference for him with the new Wilson ball is that every ball feels different. The ones they used in the past would feel the same game to game but that’s not the case this year.”
Devin Booker said the biggest difference for him with the new Wilson ball is that every ball feels different. The ones they used in the past would feel the same game to game but that's not the case this year.
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) November 3, 2021
Before blaming Booker for making excuses for his underwhelming performance, Olson also tweeted:
“As part of his answer he said he was not using it as an excuse. Just a discussion point around the league. PG13 also said they feel off and he’s been on fire.”
As part of his answer he said he was not using it as an excuse. Just a discussion point around the league. PG13 also said they feel off and he’s been on fire. https://t.co/Vo6F6rCzhQ
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) November 3, 2021
As Olson pointed out, L.A. Clippers superstar Paul George also revealed the Wilson ball does not have a great touch like the previous ball.
Despite that, George has adjusted his game and sooner or later Booker will most likely do it too. Although the start to the season is a bit concerning for him, there is still a lot of time left until we reach the end of the season.
