Devin Booker (ankle) likely to be available for the beginning of the Phoenix Suns’ 4-game road trip, teammates express missing him.
In Cleveland, Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant recently concluded a remarkable performance with a season-high 45 points in a 117-107 loss to the NBA-leading Boston Celtics at Footprint Center on Saturday night.
Durant reflected on the game’s specifics, including his six turnovers and the Celtics’ defensive strategy against the Suns, which ended their two-game winning streak.
When asked about the highly anticipated return of his All-Star teammate Devin Booker from a right ankle sprain during the upcoming four-game road trip starting in Cleveland on Monday, Durant nodded in acknowledgment.
“Another player who can generate opportunities for himself and his teammates,” Durant commented. “A tremendous leader who we rely on throughout the game. I’m eager to have him back, but we certainly don’t want to rush his return. This stage of the season is crucial, and we need him at full health. If we can afford to give him a few more hours or days to recover, we’ll gladly do so, but we certainly feel his absence on the court.”
Booker is listed as probable for the matchup against the Cavaliers after missing Phoenix’s last four games. During his absence, the Suns went 2-2, losing to Oklahoma City, clinching a victory over defending NBA champions Denver in overtime, defeating Toronto, and succumbing to the Celtics.
Coach Frank Vogel described Booker’s Saturday morning workout as “extensive” and listed him as questionable for the Boston game, but ultimately, Booker didn’t play.
Vogel expressed gratitude that Booker’s recovery progress has been positive, especially considering the severity of the injury sustained on March 2 when he landed awkwardly while defending against the Houston Rockets.
Vogel expressed optimism about Booker’s return, stating, “We’re pleased with his progress. It seems like his return won’t be too far off. Initially, with ankle injuries, it’s difficult to predict, as they can linger for several weeks. Hopefully, he’ll be back soon.”
For Monday’s game, Eric Gordon, Nassir Little, Josh Okogie, and Damion Lee will be absent due to various injuries. Vogel mentioned that Gordon aggravated his knee injury during Saturday’s game, while Little received a PRP injection in his knee last week.
The Cavaliers, who had several key players ruled out for Sunday’s game against Brooklyn, may face similar challenges on Monday, potentially presenting an opportunity for the Suns to secure a victory, especially if Booker returns.
The Suns have a two-day break between Monday’s game and Thursday’s rematch against the Celtics. They will continue their road trip with games against Charlotte on Friday and Milwaukee on Sunday.