© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – In a matchup that felt like a measuring stick for where the Suns stand in the Western Conference hierarchy, Phoenix walked off the floor with more questions than answers. One of the biggest issues coming from Saturday night’s loss to Denver was the struggles of Suns’ superstar Devin Booker.
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Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives to the basket against Denver Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson (23) in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Booker’s off-night wasn’t defined by effort but by execution. The numbers told the story plainly, which was Booker converted a fraction of his usual efficiency, particularly in late-clock situations where the Nuggets funneled him into high-difficulty pull-ups. Booker went 0-for4 from the three-point line and shot 5-for-11 in total. For a player who thrives on rhythm, those possessions felt like static. The stats will show Booker had 24 points, though more than half of his points came from the free throw line.
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) defends against Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
But the deeper issue wasn’t just Booker’s execution, it was Phoenix’s lack of a counterpunch. When your star struggles, elite teams shift their structure with more movement, more screening variety, more ways to free the engine. Making those adjustments will have to be the kind of trend that matters long after this single loss fades from memory.
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) is fouled by Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Phoenix fans, this game functions like a diagnostic. It shows where the Suns shine with shot creation from their stars with late-game adaptability. Booker will surely rebound, as his work ethic and talent leave no doubt. Although Phoenix’s ability to build a contender depends on what happens when he cannot put up massive numbers.
Phoenix Suns’ Dillon Brooks and Collin Gillespie lead way for Phoenix in first half vs Nuggets
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
