Devin Booker has been sidelined since December 1, when he suffered a groin injury during the Phoenix Suns’ 125-109 win over the Lakers. Since then, the Suns have been navigating a stretch without their star guard - a key piece of their offensive engine - and while his absence has been felt, there’s reason for optimism heading into Sunday’s rematch with L.A.
A recent video from Suns practice is turning heads - and for good reason. Booker was seen moving with ease, running drills and showing no obvious signs of discomfort.
According to reports out of Phoenix, he looked smooth and confident, which is exactly what you want to see if you're the Suns coaching staff or a fan hoping for his return. While he hasn’t officially been cleared to play, this is the most encouraging sign yet that Booker might be nearing game-ready status.
Phoenix enters Sunday at 14-11, and they’ve gone 1-2 in the three games Booker has missed - a small sample size, but enough to highlight just how important he is to the team’s rhythm and execution. In the 22 games he has played this season, Booker has been his usual dynamic self, averaging 25.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game. He’s shooting 45.7% from the field and 31.5% from deep - numbers that reflect both his scoring versatility and the gravity he brings as a playmaker.
The Suns have been a bit of a mixed bag this season - flashes of dominance followed by stretches of inconsistency. That’s not unusual for a team integrating new pieces and dealing with injuries, but Booker’s presence on the floor often serves as the stabilizer. His ability to control pace, create his own shot, and elevate those around him is something Phoenix simply can’t replicate when he’s out.
In the meantime, one player who’s made the most of this opportunity is Collin Gillespie. The former Villanova standout has stepped into a larger role and delivered, showing poise and control at the point guard spot.
Even Booker has taken notice of Gillespie’s emergence, and that’s saying something. It’s not just about the box score - Gillespie has brought a steady hand and smart decision-making to the floor, which has helped Phoenix stay competitive despite missing their top scorer.
As for Sunday’s showdown with the Lakers, the Suns have until the evening tip-off - 8 p.m. EST - to make a final call on Booker’s availability.
The team will continue evaluating him throughout the day, but the signs are trending in the right direction. Whether he suits up or not, Phoenix will be hoping to build some momentum and find more consistency as the season rolls toward the midway point.
Stay tuned - this could be the start of an important stretch for the Suns, especially if Booker is back in the fold.