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Barbosa Shines for the Suns

Despite gloomy predictions, the Suns have been able to hold the fort sporting a record of 3-3. All the Suns have to do is stay above waters until Stoudamire rejoins the team. One of the keys to contributors for Phoenix this year has been Leandro Barbosa, who has doubled his point production from 7 to 15. Oddly enough, the Suns are only 1-3 at home, where they were virtually unbeatable last year.

Many Suns fans were saddened to see Joe Johnson go, wondering who will pick up the slack in his stead. The Suns have been able to make do without Johnson in large part thanks to Barbosa who has been amazing so far this season. He appears to have finally reached a comfort level in the NBA where he is able to play without going out of control. Barbosa?s scoring is up and he is playing good defense. His ball handling has improved and he looks to be an all around player now.

Don?t forget, this is a guy who lighted up the score board before he got drafted into the league, so he?s not shy about scoring. Because Coach D?Antoni has more trust in him, look for his minutes to go up while Nash?s lower a little. As long as Barbosa continues to improve, he will win games for this team. He still struggles with his judgment sometimes, but that will come with age.