The Washington Verdict & The Suns' Seed Search: KD’s Return and the Collapse against Houston

In Episode 655 of The Valley Verdict, we review a high-intensity stretch for the Phoenix Suns as they navigate the final turn of the regular season. From clinching the 7th seed in a gritty win over Dallas to the collapse against Houston, the Standard is being measured.We examine the return of Kevin Durant to the Valley, the impact of Dillon Brooks' postseason reputation, and the mystery of the undetermined starting five. Plus, an "Absolute Verdict" on why we need to stop adding the word "State" to the name Washington.In this episode:00:00 - WelcomeOpening thoughts on the intensity of the NBA playoff race and the latest encounter in the VR headset.19:22 - Absolute Verdict: The Washington FallacyThe VR Encounter: Why a conversation with a guy from the Pacific Northwest triggered a breakdown of geography and vocabulary.The Vocabulary Standard: Reviewing why "Washington" should stand alone without the extra baggage, and a teaser for a future conversation regarding the word "at." You can leave the baggage behind the "at," but that's a conversation for a different day.23:22 - Suns: The State of the UnionThe NBA Problem: Reacting to Bickley & Marotta on how the Suns represent a broader shift in the league.The Starting Five: Reviewing the Burns & Gambo breakdown of why the Suns' opening rotation is still undetermined with the postseason looming.The Dillon Brooks Factor: Wolf & Luke ask if Brooks' antics will help or hurt the Suns' intensity in the playoffs.The Return of KD: Reviewing the energy in the building as Kevin Durant makes his return to the Valley floor.Suns vs. Rockets: The 21-Point Collapse: Reviewing the 119-105 loss after the Suns blew a 21-point early lead and a 24-0 run. We hear from Coach Jordan Ott regarding the execution gaps and the defensive lapses.Suns vs. Mavericks: Clinching the 7th Seed: Reviewing the 112-107 victory over Dallas on the second night of a back-to-back. Reacting to Bickley & Marotta on why the race for the 7th seed was closer than it should have been.Sound: Dillon Brooks speaks with Amanda Pflugrad on the court; Devin Booker and Jordan Ott speak to the media regarding the Standard required to close out the home schedule.The Verdict: Does clinching the 7th seed prove the Suns have found their connectivity, or is the 21-point collapse against Houston the real warning sign for the first round? 👇Follow The Valley Verdict:Facebook: [@thevalleyverdict]Instagram: [@thevalleyverdictpodcast]YouTube: [@thevalleyverdict]