Suns Eye Redemption as Doncic Sits Out Tuesday Night Showdown with Lakers
PHOENIX - The Phoenix Suns have a golden opportunity Tuesday night. Not just to pick up a win, but to make a statement - and maybe even settle a score.
They’ll host the Los Angeles Lakers, who will be without Luka Dončić, their engine, their closer, and the league’s current scoring leader. Dončić has been ruled out with a left calf contusion after taking a knee to the leg during Saturday’s matchup against the Clippers. It’s not the first time he’s dealt with lower leg issues this season, and Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged the team has been trying to find ways to protect their star’s legs as the grind of the season wears on.
Without Dončić, the Lakers lose their offensive focal point - and that’s no small thing. He’s averaging 34.1 points per game, and there’s no clean way to replicate that kind of production. His absence forces Los Angeles to rework its approach on the fly, and that opens the door for Phoenix to take advantage.
For the Suns, this isn’t just about exploiting a short-handed opponent. This is personal.
The last time these two teams met - back on Dec. 14 - it ended in a nail-biter. The Lakers edged out a 116-114 win, and the final minutes were clouded by controversial calls that left a bitter taste in Phoenix's mouth. Dončić was a problem in that one too, dropping 29 points and making his presence felt in crunch time.
Now, with Dončić sidelined, the Suns have a chance to flip the script.
Phoenix’s defense has been particularly active when Dončić is on the floor, using his high usage rate as a chance to force turnovers and disrupt rhythm. With him out, they’ll need to shift that focus and apply the same ball pressure to other Lakers playmakers - a challenge, but also an opportunity to showcase the depth of their defensive schemes.
And let’s not overlook the timing. The Western Conference standings are tightly packed, and every win matters - especially against a team like the Lakers. With the holiday stretch in full swing and the playoff picture slowly beginning to take shape, this is the kind of game that can swing momentum.
Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. local time at Footprint Center. The Suns are looking for more than just a win - they’re looking for payback, a boost in the standings, and a chance to show they can seize the moment when it’s handed to them.