The Phoenix Suns were aiming to kick off the second half of their season with momentum, but Thursday night brought an unexpected challenge.
Devin Booker, the driving force behind the Suns' offense, had to exit early in a crucial Western Conference matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. The team later announced that the five-time All-Star would not return due to right hip soreness, leaving a significant gap in their lineup.
Before his early departure, Booker was working to regain his rhythm post-All-Star break. In just 9 minutes on the court, he managed five points and a rebound. Though his long-range shots weren't falling-missing both attempts from beyond the arc-he was making an impact at the rim and the free-throw line, keeping the Suns competitive in the early stages.
The Suns, with a record of 32-24, are in a tight race to avoid the Play-In Tournament. Facing a blazing San Antonio Spurs team on a seven-game winning streak, they were already at a disadvantage with Dillon Brooks serving a one-game suspension.
With Booker out, the pressure mounted on Jalen Green and Mark Williams. The Spurs capitalized on his absence, with standout performances from Victor Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox, and Devin Vassell, each scoring over 20 points by the third quarter. The Spurs were pulling away with an 89-63 lead at the Moody Center in the third quarter.
Attention now turns to the severity of Booker’s hip issue. Having already managed a right ankle injury in February, any prolonged absence from their leading scorer, who averages 25.2 points per game, could severely impact the Suns' playoff positioning.
As the Suns gear up for their next game, fans in the Valley are anxiously awaiting news on their superstar’s condition.