The Phoenix Suns are back in action Friday night, squaring off with the New Orleans Pelicans in what marks their first game since a convincing win over the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this week. At 16-13 on the season, the Suns have quietly climbed into the Western Conference’s seventh seed - a position that would land them in the play-in tournament if the postseason started today. But make no mistake: this team is playing better than that label suggests.
Much of the early-season success has come from a blend of new faces and familiar firepower. Dillon Brooks has brought his trademark edge and defensive grit, while All-Star Devin Booker continues to be the engine of the offense. Grayson Allen has stepped up with efficient scoring and playmaking, and even with Jalen Green sidelined for most of the year, the Suns have shown impressive resilience.
But as they prepare to face New Orleans, Phoenix will be without two key contributors: Allen and Green have both been ruled out for the matchup.
Allen’s absence is starting to become a theme. This will be his fourth straight game missed due to a right knee injury, and his 12th missed game overall this season.
When he’s been on the floor, he’s been a steady presence - averaging 16 points per game on 43% shooting, while adding four assists per contest. His ability to stretch the floor and make smart reads has been a valuable piece of the Suns’ offensive puzzle, especially alongside Booker.
Green’s situation is even more frustrating, both for him and the team. The explosive guard has logged just 30 minutes all season due to a lingering right hamstring strain that first sidelined him during the preseason.
After missing the first eight games, he finally made his debut against the Clippers and immediately reminded everyone of his potential - dropping 29 points and hitting six threes in that lone appearance. But just two days later, in a rematch with the Clippers, the injury flared up again.
He hasn’t been back since.
Even with those setbacks, Phoenix has managed to stay afloat in the brutal Western Conference. Their ability to win games without a fully healthy roster speaks volumes about the team’s depth and internal toughness. Booker has been leading by example, Brooks has brought a defensive identity, and the supporting cast has stepped up when called upon.
Friday’s matchup with the Pelicans is another chance for the Suns to prove they’re more than just a team hanging around the play-in picture. They’ve shown flashes of something more - and if they can keep stacking wins while waiting for reinforcements, they could be a dangerous team come spring.