The Phoenix Suns are going to be without one of their biggest weapons for at least the next week. Devin Booker, the team’s All-Star guard and offensive engine, is sidelined with a right ankle sprain, the team confirmed Sunday. The injury is expected to keep him out for a minimum of four games.
Booker went down in the third quarter of Friday’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks after stepping on the foot of Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu while pushing the ball up the floor. It was an awkward, unintentional play, but the impact was immediate. Booker limped off the court and later left the arena on crutches - never a good sign for a player who’s been central to Phoenix’s rhythm all season.
This is a significant blow for a Suns squad that’s just starting to find its footing in a tightly packed Western Conference race. Booker has been as steady as ever, averaging 25.4 points per game - good for 14th in the league - while also dishing out 6.2 assists and grabbing 4.0 rebounds per contest through 41 games. His ability to control the pace, create for others, and take over late in games has made him the heartbeat of this Suns offense.
And it’s not just the numbers. Booker’s presence on the floor opens up so much for Phoenix’s other stars, particularly Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. With Booker out, the Suns will need to lean heavily on that duo, while also getting more from their supporting cast - especially in the backcourt.
Adding to the Suns’ injury concerns, guard Jalen Green also picked up a knock in that same game, tweaking his right hamstring. While his status is still up in the air - he’s listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup against the Miami Heat - it’s another variable for head coach Frank Vogel to manage as the team tries to stay afloat without one of its leaders.
At 27-18, Phoenix currently holds the sixth seed in the West. That’s a solid spot, but there’s little breathing room. Just a few games separate the middle of the pack from the play-in zone, and the Suns can’t afford to lose momentum - especially with a tough stretch of games ahead.
The next week will test this team’s depth and resilience. Booker’s timeline is short-term for now, but how the Suns navigate his absence could have long-term implications in a conference where every win matters.