Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Phoenix Suns’ start to the season has been underwhelming. Big things were expected from them they added Bradley Beal to their roster. But the Suns have struggled to achieve any momentum due to injuries to key players. They have won four games and lost another four, as they occupy the 7th spot in the Western Conference.

They face the Los Angeles Lakers in their second game of the In-Season tournament. However, in a crucial matchup against the Lakers, the Suns may be without Devin Booker, as he is currently nursing an injury.

Devin Booker is close to full fitness

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Following last season’s disappointing defeat to the Denver Nuggets in the Conference semifinals, the Suns further strengthened their roster. They added Bradley Beal to their roster, creating a “big-three” with Durant and Booker. However, their start to the 2023-24 season has left a lot to be desired. They have won four games from a possible eight, but the absence of Booker and Beal hasn’t helped. There has been an upturn in their performances recently, as they have won their last two games. The Suns would aim to keep this momentum going when they face division rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, later tonight.

The return of the In-Season tournament brings with it the thrill of a fresh and exciting addition to the season. The standout game is between the Suns and the Lakers. Suns would have their work cut out, as Booker will miss the game against the Lakers. Booker is suffering from a left calf strain, but there is optimism that Booker is close to full fitness. According to Shams Charania, “Devin Booker is nearing comeback potentially on Phoenix’s upcoming home-stand”. The Suns have also listed Bradley Beal as “probable” for the game.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Predicted lineups

Both teams will field formidable lineups, given the significant stakes at play in the game. Neither team has had a promising start to the season. They both aim to secure a victory in this game, which could potentially serve as a catalyst for a turnaround in their respective seasons. Both franchises have intentions to win the NBA title, and securing victories against their fellow title contenders is pivotal for their championship aspirations.

Read More: Luka Doncic Honors Childhood Hero Cristiano Ronaldo Through Latest Jordan Sneaker

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Phoenix Suns might begin the game with Bradley Beal, Grayson Allen, Eric Gordon, Kevin Durant, and Jusuf Nurkic. On the other hand, the Lakers will also field a strong starting five. They might start the game with D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Taurean Prince, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis. Who will win this highly anticipated match-up? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this Story: “Don’t Know How You Handle That”: After Joining Forces With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard Sends Warning to the Rest of the NBA