Is the Suns’ winning streak in jeopardy? Well, they have been impressive on the court so far. With a four-point victory over the Lakers last weekend, they opened their preseason strong. The Phoenix side carried that momentum to the next game and bagged another win, this time against the Pistons. But as Mike Budenholzer’s squad prepares for tomorrow’s rematch against the Detroit-based franchise, a major setback could affect their high-flying start to the preseason.

As per the head coach, Jusuf Nurkic and Grayson Allen have been ruled out of tomorrow’s game. However, reasons for their absence are totally different. In Nurkic’s case, he is yet to make an appearance in the preseason as he is dealing with a left middle finger injury.

So, Budenholzer might not have to make a lot of adjustments in the rotation that he has used so far. With Jusuf out, Mason Plumlee has been playing at the five spot for the last two games and has scored a total of 9 points. Oso Ighodaro could also see increased game time with a responsibility to plug the gap. Talking about Nurkic’s expected return, his injury will be re-evaluated in a few days.

Meanwhile, Allen already suited up in the Lakers encounter and even scored 7 points that night. However, he did not play on Tuesday because of a big update in his personal life. The hooper and his wife are expecting a baby! And that could be why he is taking more time off the court. Sure enough, it’s a major blow for the Suns because Allen had a career-high year last season, leading the charts in 3-point shooting efficiency with 46.1%. Fortunately, this is only the preseason and he will likely return when the high-stake games begin.

‘Bulked Up’ Suns’ Grayson Allen believes he has gotten better over the summer

Unfortunately, Grayson Allen could not continue his incredible form during the playoffs last season as he suffered a devastating ankle injury. As a result, he could only play two postseason games for limited minutes. However, he impressed everyone on Media Day when he appeared significantly bulked up and stronger. “This off-season I started lifting a little bit sooner than I have in the past,” he remarked, highlighting that he had aimed to get stronger so that he could avoid injuries.

Allen even dropped an update on his weight. “My listed weight is still like 195 or something. I’m nowhere close to that. Around 230.” Visibly stronger, he hopes to have a bigger season than last year, “I had a great year last year and I feel like I’ve gotten better.”

If Grayson Allen can shoot with the same efficiency, the hooper will surely play a key role in the Phoenix Suns’ title pursuit. Meanwhile, Jusuf Nurkic is expected to provide that defensive stability to the team when he returns. Just last season, he averaged 10.9 points and eleven boards. And the team will need a better output when he returns from his injury. But tomorrow, Mike Budenholzer will have to worry about keeping his team’s winning streak alive without the two stars. Do you think they can do it?

Before leaving, do watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant and more!