According to Arizona Sports’ insider John Gambadoro, Phoenix Suns star guard Devin Booker is set to return to the lineup either on Tuesday or Thursday of next week against the Kings or Bulls.
This development arrives at a critical time for a team that’s been searching for offensive rhythm and a semblance of perimeter consistency. They get their engine back!
Booker’s return should hopefully allow Jalen Green to settle into the role we all envisioned him being in, rather than having to be “the guy”. In the last four games he’s missed, Phoenix has gone 1-3, and their offense has fallen off a cliff outside of last night’s game, which probably says more about the Lakers’ defense than the Suns’ offense.
Booker missed significant time previously this season, but with Brooks, Allen, Gillespie, and Goodwin available (mostly) during that stretch, it was easier to survive. Now, without Brooks, the margin for key guards being absent is razor-thin.
As for Goodwin, his projected return being about a week behind offers another layer of reinforcement. His defensive edge and point-of-attack pressure have also been missed, particularly in matchups where Phoenix has struggled to contain dribble penetration.
They have an unusual number of days off as their next game isn’t until Tuesday, giving them time to reset and recover. The schedule lightens up, and they get their star back. It’s time to make up some ground!
Help is on the way, Suns fans.