The Phoenix Suns had high hopes for the 2015-16 season as they wanted to take the next major step.
They wanted to make a big splash in the off-season, going after LaMarcus Aldridge. They even signed defensive center Tyson Chandler to entice him, but the former Blazers franchise player chose the Spurs.
Now, the season may all but be finished as their current best player. The official statement from Suns.com:
"Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe today underwent successful surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee and will miss the remainder of the 2015-16 season. His prognosis is for a return to full playing status for the start of training camp next fall."
This development has led to suggestions from the Suns' fans that maybe they should tank their season and look ahead. Hoops Habit discussed this dilemma.
The issue was sparked in part by the Suns' embarrassing loss to the lowly Philadelphia 76ers, giving them only their second victory of the season. The Sixers beat the Suns without prized rookie Jahlil Okafor, right on the Suns' homecourt.
Phoenix is now at 12th place in the Western Conference at 12-21. They are on a five-game losing streak and went 5-16 in their last 21 games. With the rumors about Jeff Hornacek's possible ouster, the club has suddenly become the problematic team of the season after the Sacramento Kings and Houston Rockets.
Hoops Habit's Gerard Bourguet contends that it might be better for the Suns to "tank" and position themselves higher in the draft lottery than make a futile attempt to reach the playoffs, especially with Eric Bledsoe out.
The Suns have been in the late lottery or middle first round in the past few years and it has been reflected in the talent on the team. They have also pursued free agents but they have failed to nab their top targets, so the only way to improve their team is to draft a potential superstar.
The Suns may join the Sixers and Lakers who are also "positioning" their team. This season may not be salvageable so it's better to look towards next season.