An unfortunate string of defensive lapses, slight cold stretches on offense, and a controversial ejection were all in play during the Phoenix Suns (1-3) loss to the Denver Nuggets (3-2) on Friday night.

The ejection belongs to Dillon Brooks, of course.

Brooks left the game with 8:05 left in the third quarter after kicking his right let out and making contact with Nuggets guard Jamal Murray. He was called for a flagrant two foul and subsequently ejected. 

This ejection led to much controversy, as many were debating if the punishment was requisite for the foul. Others claim that tossing Brooks cost Phoenix the win. 

Suns head coach Jordan Ott spoke about the ejection following the game, going to the point of hinting that he feels that the action didn't warrant the call (PHNX).

"Just unfortunate that we get the short end of the stick on some of that."

The Suns certainly seem to feel that this shouldn't have been the result, but the loss is what it is and Phoenix must take that in stride.

Ott also went on to claim that he had hopes that the reputation Brooks carries didn't lead to the decision. 

Going beyond that debate is arguing the extent of impact Brooks' exit had on the bearings of the game.

One may reasonably argue that Brooks was a -14 in 21 minutes of action. However, key context is necessary to add depth to the debate. 

The wing was a blazing 9-12 from the field and made four three-point looks. There's a very real argument that can be made on the contrary that Brooks would have given Phoenix shotmaking juice in the fourth quarter that took Phoenix over the finish line.

That hypothesis can unfortunately not be tested and Phoenix has to recalibrate. 

Phoenix is playing the Golden State Warriors in a road game on Monday night. This contests presents another opportunity for sparks to fly, as Brooks and Warriors' rookie Yaxel Lendeborg have exchanged jabs over the offseason.

The hopes are that the tensions don't boil over in this game. Expect the addition of Oso Ighodaro into the lineup serve as a major advantage for the Suns against a Warriors squad that lacks a true center. Also expect the Suns to lean on Brooks to generate offense in key moments once again.