The Phoenix Suns kicked off their three-game homestand with a thrilling overtime victory against the Utah Jazz. However, they now face a much tougher opponent—the Denver Nuggets, who come into this matchup riding a five-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Suns are looking to build momentum after snapping a three-game losing streak, thanks in large part to a spectacular performance from Devin Booker.
Booker delivered a sensational performance in the Suns’ recent win, dropping a massive 47 points along with 11 assists and six rebounds. His efforts were crucial, especially with Phoenix missing two of their biggest stars—Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. With those key absences, the 28-year-old guard stepped up when the team needed him most.
Now, all eyes are on whether Durant and Beal will return for tonight’s clash. Let’s take a look at the Suns’ injury report ahead of their showdown with the Nuggets.
Phoenix Suns’ injury report before the Denver Nuggets showdown
Phoenix may have returned to winning ways, but they face an uphill battle against the in-form Nuggets. To stand a chance, they’ll need all the firepower they can get. Unfortunately, Kevin Durant will remain sidelined for this matchup. The veteran superstar has missed the last two games due to an ankle injury and won’t be available tonight either.
Mar 3, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) celebrates with guard Bradley Beal (3) during the first quarter of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports.
Durant has been outstanding this season, averaging 26.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His absence is a significant blow to the Suns. However, their injury troubles don’t stop there—Bradley Beal is also ruled out due to a lingering toe injury, which kept him out of the last game as well. Beal has been solid when available, averaging 17.4 points while shooting an impressive 49.5% from the field.
With both Durant and Beal unavailable, Phoenix faces an even greater challenge against a deep and dominant Nuggets squad. Denver also has injury concerns, though. They will be without Russell Westbrook and could potentially miss Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray, both of whom are listed as questionable.
Phoenix Suns’ predicted starting five for tonight
With two of Phoenix’s biggest stars unavailable, head coach Mike Budenholzer will need to adjust his game plan. Devin Booker will once again have to shoulder much of the scoring burden, leading his team against a tough Nuggets defense. Meanwhile, Phoenix will need to find a way to contain reigning MVP Nikola Jokić, who has been in outstanding form and poses a massive threat in the paint.
Here’s how the Suns’ starting lineup could look tonight:
Position
Starters
PG
Tyus Jones
SG
Devin Booker
SF
Ryan Dunn
PF
Royce O’Neale
C
Nick Richards
Given their current form and injury struggles, the Suns enter this game as clear underdogs. Denver’s hot streak, combined with Phoenix missing both Durant and Beal, makes this a difficult challenge. However, if Booker can replicate his recent performance and the Suns’ supporting cast steps up, they might just have a shot at pulling off a surprise win.
With the stage set for a high-stakes battle at the Footprint Center, all that’s left is to see whether Phoenix can defy the odds and come out on top.
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