The Phoenix Suns are struggling with a dismal record of 6-16 in their last 22 games, including a recent four-game losing streak. The team's performance has declined significantly since the return of Kevin Durant, who has been part of a lineup that has seen more losses than wins. Despite being relatively healthy, with Royce O’Neal the only key player missing, tensions are rising within the team.

In light of their poor performance, the Suns are making significant changes to their starting lineup ahead of their matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers. Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic will be benched, while rookie Ryan Dunn and Mason Plumlee will step into the starting roles. This change comes as the coaching staff grapples with players feeling uncertain about their roles. Coach Mike Budenholzer will need to recalibrate the team's strategy if they hope to improve their standing in the Western Conference.