The Phoenix Suns are taking a cautious approach with their roster as they prepare for their final game of the 2025 NBA Summer League against the Portland Trail Blazers. Key players Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro, Khaman Maluach, and Koby Brea will be resting. The Suns have struggled, losing their last three games and currently sit at 1-3 in the tournament.

Despite the setbacks, second-round pick Rasheer Fleming is set to start after recovering from knee soreness, and Boogie Ellis, Khalif Battle, Moses Wood, and CJ Huntley will join him on the court. Ighodaro had a solid run with averages of 12.3 points and 8.5 rebounds, while Dunn leads the team in scoring at 14.7 points per game. Maluach, the 10th pick overall, has been inconsistent but has shown flashes of potential. Brea's absence due to a thumb injury adds to the team's challenges as they look to end the Summer League on a high note.

The 2025 Las Vegas Summer League kicked off with electrifying performances, especially from top draft picks. Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, showcased his potential, averaging 20.5 points across two games, including a standout 31-point display in Game 2. While he struggled with shooting consistency, his versatility and defense are impressing scouts. LeBron James made a rare appearance at the event, adding to speculation about his future with the Lakers. Meanwhile, rookies Ace Bailey and VJ Edgecombe missed the action due to injuries, disappointing fans eager to see them play.

Yang Hansen, the first Chinese player drafted in the first round in nearly two decades, attracted attention for his play and NBA-ready skills. Rising stars like Jaylen Wells and Terrence Shannon Jr. also made their mark, with Wells stepping up scoring after a trade-related opportunity. The Summer League remains a platform for young talent to shine, with records being set, including Alex Sarr's eight blocks in a game, highlighting the defensive prowess on display.

In an uneven performance, the Phoenix Suns succumbed to the Atlanta Hawks 98-80, marking their second game of the Summer League. Despite a solid showing from Oso Ighodaro, who led the team with 18 points, the Suns struggled with shooting, finishing at just 39.2% from the floor. Rasheer Fleming's continued absence due to knee soreness hampered the team's depth, with coach DeMarre Carroll hinting at a cautious approach for his potential return. The Suns will need to adjust quickly, facing the Sacramento Kings on Monday.

Carroll highlighted the need for more aggressive offensive sets, as the team tends to be predictable on the court. Koby Brea's ability to adjust against tight defenses was notable, but his defensive lapses need addressing. With a critical upcoming matchup against the Kings, the Suns will look to refine their game plan and utilize their assets more effectively.

Mike Budenholzer, former head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, now leads the Phoenix Suns as they prepare to face his old team for the first time since his firing. Budenholzer achieved significant milestones with the Bucks, including an NBA championship in 2021 and a Coach of the Year award. However, his final season ended in disappointment after a playoff exit to Miami, leading to his dismissal. Despite his past, Budenholzer is focused on his current team's preparation, emphasizing the need to concentrate on the Suns' goals.

While Budenholzer claims his emotions won’t interfere with his coaching, both players and analysts expect some heightened energy upon facing the Bucks. Suns' superstar Kevin Durant noted that great teams often match their coach's intensity, hinting at the emotional stakes involved. As the Suns strive to overcome a rocky season, Budenholzer faces criticism for their performance despite a high payroll and is under pressure to deliver results in the upcoming games.

Oso Ighodaro has stepped up impressively for the Suns as Mason Plumlee faced consecutive ejections, showcasing his strong potential in the NBA. In a recent matchup against the Sacramento Kings, Ighodaro scored 11 points, pulled down six rebounds, and recorded a career-high four blocks in just 32 minutes of play. This performance helped the Suns to snap a two-game losing streak, enhancing their chances in the play-in tournament.

With Plumlee's ejections, Ighodaro embraced the 'next-man-up' mentality, showing readiness and energy when called upon. His ability to capitalize on increased playing time demonstrates his importance to the team's depth as they strive for playoff positioning. Fellow rookie Ryan Dunn also contributed significantly, scoring 16 points and adding youthful energy which has been crucial during this stretch.