The Phoenix Suns just hit a major speed bump in their 2025-26 campaign - and it comes in the form of a right groin injury to their franchise cornerstone, Devin Booker.
Booker exited Monday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers and did not return. The early word is that this isn’t a minor issue.
While there’s no official timetable yet, the expectation is that Booker could be sidelined for a stretch. And for a Suns team that’s finally started to find its rhythm, this is the kind of news that can change the trajectory of a season.
Let’s be clear: Booker isn’t just Phoenix’s leading scorer - he’s the engine that makes their offense go. Through the early part of the season, he’s been putting up 25.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, all while drawing the attention of opposing defenses every night. His ability to create off the dribble, knock down tough shots, and facilitate for teammates is what gives this Suns offense its identity.
Without him, things get murky.
Yes, Dillon Brooks has stepped up in a big way this season, carving out a role as a legitimate second scoring option. His energy on both ends of the floor has been a welcome boost, and he’s shown he can carry the load in stretches.
But asking him to replicate what Booker brings night in and night out? That’s a tall order.
Booker is more than just a scorer - he’s a stabilizing force. He’s the guy who gets the ball when the shot clock is winding down, when the team needs a bucket, or when the momentum starts to shift. His absence forces the Suns to shift their offensive structure, and that’s not a small adjustment.
To their credit, Phoenix has been quietly solid to start the season. They’re sitting three games above .500 in early December, and they’ve shown flashes of the team that made a Finals run not too long ago.
But maintaining that momentum without their star guard? That’s going to take some serious resilience - and likely some creative adjustments from the coaching staff.
The Suns have depth, but the margin for error just got a lot smaller. Whether it’s leaning more on Brooks, getting increased production from their bench, or tightening things up defensively, Phoenix is going to have to find ways to stay afloat while Booker recovers.
For now, all eyes are on the injury report. And while the season is far from over, there’s no sugarcoating it - losing Booker, even temporarily, is a gut punch.