“My main focus and goal this year is have fun”, Bradley Beal laid out a different set of expectations for himself, than an average NBA player would have, for the ongoing regular season. The player revealed he wanted to make up for not getting his “feet planted correctly and running with the team” after not finding the expected success during his first season with the Phoenix Suns. Unfortunately, his plans to do so initially seemed doubtful in light of an injury. While the ailment didn’t stop him for long, a different one may now halt his regular season progression.

Earlier today, Suns reporter Gerald Bourguet highlighted the injury report for the franchise’s upcoming game against the LA Lakers. The Suns currently hold a 4-6 win record against LeBron James and co. Hence, all key players in the starting lineup must be present.

Initially, the same didn’t seem possible, as the report has placed Bradley Beal’s status as ‘Questionable’ in light of his right elbow soreness. However, just minutes before the game, Dave McMenamin reports, “PHX coach Mike Budenholzer says that he expects Bradley Beal (elbow) to be available tonight vs. LAL.” On another positive note, the injury report no longer contains Grayson Allen’s name, ensuring he remains available to take on the Lakers.

According to Sportsnet, acquiring Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards ensured the presence of a new ‘Big 3’ team, comprising him, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker. However, the trio did not meet any expectations to bring a change to the Suns’s championship-contending chances. Durant, Booker, and Beal only played 40 games together, as Beal’s continuous injuries, including his back ailment, kept him off the court for quite some time. Then, in January, Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner accidentally elbowed Beal’s face back in January causing damage to his nose. The discomfort continued till the preseason but didn’t keep him off the court.

Now, due to a reported elbow tweak that occurred during the previous Suns-Lakers game, the player is once again sidelined. After his status was listed as ‘Questionable’ during the Suns’ home opener game against the Dallas Mavericks, Beal was eventually ruled OUT. Therefore, a similar declaration may be made just hours before the second Lakers matchup too.

The report lists more than just the shooting guard/small forward. The Suns will miss Josh Okogie, who made a major presence during their last two season runs, as a hamstring strain has benched him for his fourth consecutive game. Additionally, the team has also declared Jalen Bridges and TyTy Washington OUT. However, since both players are playing under two-way contracts, their absence is not due to any major injury. But, it is because of their G-League games commitment. In light of these updates, things can look slightly different for the Phoenix Suns during their upcoming game.

What will the starting lineup and depth chart for the Suns-Lakers clash look like?

With Bradley Beal’s absence, the Suns may call upon rookie and first-round pick Ryan Dunn once again. After averaging 9.4 points during the preseason, the coach asked the player to start during the matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. He made use of the opportunity by scoring 13 points and grabbing 1 rebound in the span of 21 minutes. His 62.5% field goal percentage and 50% three-point percentage recorded against Luka Doncic and co assured that he isn’t one to waste opportunities.

Josh Okogie’s absence may result in Damion Lee and Monte Morris gaining additional playtime on the court. Grayson Allen’s return ensures that Devin Booker has a backup shooting guard present to take his place in case something unexpected occurs. Taking these updates into consideration, the starting lineup for the Phoenix Suns, when going up against the Los Angeles Lakers, may look something like this:

The Phoenix Suns or the Los Angeles Lakers? Who will you be rooting for during the upcoming matchup? Let us know in the comments down below.