© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – When the Phoenix Suns lost Devin Booker early to a right groin strain, alarms were going off as to what Phoenix’s game plan would be without them. Booker, who is averaging 25.0 points and 6.7 assists per game this season, has been the main focal point after Jalen Green’s injury. Phoenix didn’t crumble after his absence against Los Angeles; what unfolded was something unexpected yet hopeful.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!
Dec 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) shoots against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
With the news that Devin Booker will be re-evaluated next week, it could shift the vibe from a quick return to a possibility of more missed time. How can Phoenix overcome the absence of Booker and make sure that the Suns’ offense doesn’t stall out, become predictable, and keep building chemistry while addressing the turnover issue? Head Coach Jordan Ott has a couple of pieces he can turn to, and some depth as well.
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1), Collin Gillespie (12) and forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
What the Suns will look like without Devin Booker:
The Suns will have to rely on the two stars from that Monday night matchup, Dillon Brooks and Collin Gillespie. Brooks poured in 33 points on efficient shooting and physical defense; Gillespie came off the bench and knocked down 8-of-14 threes on his way to 28, changing the tone of the game and turning heads along the way. The duo carried Phoenix past a talented Lakers squad, proving that when the spotlight shifts, they’re going to embrace it. Suns C Mark Williams, along with backup guards Jamaree Bouyea and Jordan Goodwin, will be the main role players and depth pieces Brooks and Gillespie can turn to.
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of the jersey of Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) against the Denver Nuggets at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
This matters beyond a single game. Emotionally, it restores belief for Suns fans that this team isn’t one-man deep. Strategically, it validates a roster built not just around stars, but around complementary players capable of stepping up. Nationally, it sends a message that the West remains crowded, competitive, and deep.
Phoenix Suns fans react to a possible Chris Paul reunion
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
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
