Jalen Green. Image via: Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images Phoenix Suns fans faced a rough night in Atlanta as two key players went down with injuries during Friday’s matchup against the Hawks at State Farm Arena. Jalen Green exited in the first quarter after experiencing tightness in his right hamstring, just minutes into his second game back after a long absence. Devin Booker later left the court limping after stepping on an opponent’s foot, compounding the team’s woes.Green’s return to the court had been highly anticipated after missing 33 games due to a persistent right hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Booker had scored 31 points in 28 minutes before the injury, and his sudden departure stalled Phoenix’s momentum. Both players’ status are uncertain as the team heads into a critical homestand.
Jalen Green injury update and impact on the Suns
Jalen Green played only four minutes before leaving the court under precautionary measures for right hamstring tightness. “It’s unclear why Green exited to the locker room, though it’s worth noting that this is just his second game back from an extended absence due to a right hamstring strain,” reports Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic.Green’s explosive style relies on sudden acceleration and deceleration, which places tremendous stress on the hamstring, making re-injury a significant risk. The Suns have ruled him out for the remainder of the game.This setback mirrors earlier challenges Green faced in November, when he played 23 minutes in his season debut and then re-injured the same hamstring seven minutes into his second game. Green’s repeated injuries hinder Phoenix’s ability to establish offensive chemistry, particularly as the roster was finally healthy.
Devin Booker leaves game with ankle injury
Later in the matchup, Devin Booker suffered a right ankle injury in the third quarter after stepping on Onyeka Okongwu’s foot. Booker had recently returned from a sprained left ankle sustained on January 13 in Miami. At the time of his exit, Phoenix led 91-84, but the loss of both Green and Booker disrupted the team’s rhythm. Booker needed assistance to leave the court, and while he had been performing at a high level with 31 points, the Suns now face uncertainty regarding his availability in upcoming games.The Suns’ back-to-back injuries highlight the fragility of their rotation as they head home for a five-game homestand.