The Phoenix Suns are set to wrap up their five-game homestand on February 1 against the Los Angeles Clippers at Mortgage Matchup Center. The Suns currently hold a 2-1 advantage over the Clippers in their season series.
The teams first met on October 24, where the Clippers dominated with a 129-102 victory. James Harden led the way for the Clippers with 30 points, while Kawhi Leonard contributed 27 points. For the Suns, Dillon Brooks finished the game as the top scorer with 21 points.
On November 6, the Suns bounced back with a 115-102 victory, marking the Suns debut for Jalen Green, who returned from a right hamstring strain to score an impressive 29 points and hit a franchise record six 3-pointers. Devin Booker added 24 points, along with significant contributions across rebounds and assists. This matchup, being the only game on that date, showcased the Suns’ strong roster despite Bradley Beal’s struggles for the Clippers, who only managed five points.
The following game on November 8 saw the Suns secure another win against the Clippers, this time 114-103, as six Suns players scored in double digits. Booker came close to achieving his first regular-season triple-double with a stat line of 21 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists. Unfortunately for the Suns, during this game, Green reinjured his hamstring, sidelining him for 33 consecutive games until his return on January 20 against Philadelphia. Beal, in what turned out to be his final game of the season, scored 12 points in 20 minutes, later diagnosed with a hip fracture that requires surgery, keeping him out for the remainder of the season.
Looking ahead, the Suns will travel to Portland for a game against the Trail Blazers on February 3 at 9 p.m. MST. They will return home for further matchups against the Golden State Warriors on February 5 at 8 p.m. and the Philadelphia 76ers on February 7 at 7 p.m.
The Suns show promise as they navigate their season despite recent challenges, including injuries. The team’s ability to regroup and maintain resilience is notable as they continue to perform well against tough opponents.