The Phoenix Suns defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 133-115 to secure a much-needed victory. Now, the team’s record is 5-6 for the year.
Devin Booker’s comeback from a calf injury provided the Suns a significant lift in the starting lineup, as Frank Vogel and company clearly missed the MVP candidate on the floor. With four rebounds, five assists, and 31 points in just 26 minutes of play, Booker was productive.
Phoenix initially expected Bradley Beal to participate, though he’s now missed eight-of-eleven games due to lower back issues. The Suns’ big three of Booker, Beal and Kevin Durant have yet to play together in the regular season.
“Just making sure that everyone is playing as a team, we’re balanced and the rotation, so that they’re all getting equal opportunity and we’re utilizing them to the best of their abilities,” said Suns coach Frank Vogel prior to the game.
Phoenix put out a starting lineup of Booker, Eric Gordon, Grayson Allen, Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkic tonight. Bench players such as Josh Okogie (12) and Drew Eubanks (13) poured in double-digit scoring efforts to stop their two-game losing streak.
Durant secured his fifth 30+ point game of the year with 31 points, six rebounds and six assists in 35 minutes.
The Suns have experienced shooting issues recently, but not this evening. Phoenix made an incredible 60% from the field, including 54.8% from three-point range.
14 points or more were scored by everyone but one starter (Nurkic, who finished with three points on just 1-3 shooting).
After Phoenix shot 12-19 as a team in the first quarter, when they scored 35 points, the Suns always appeared to be in control. Despite recent troubles in the fourth quarter, the team led 76-54 at halftime and controlled the game comfortably the rest of the way.
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