Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns have had a fairly successful start to the 2023-24 season so far. Despite experiencing a few early setbacks with injuries, they still seem more than capable of maintaining a good pace in the wins column. They’re coming off a dominant victory over the Utah Jazz and are currently 2-1 in the Western Conference moving into Game 4.
DREW JAMS ✈️ pic.twitter.com/ERnm5cl3Z8
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) October 29, 2023
Their opponents for the night are the San Antonio Spurs, a team that’s waiting to prove that they can cause problems. Victor Wembanyama has been playing very well but since the preseason, he has taken a step back from offensive duties. But they are in a better place when compared to last season. Both teams will meet at the Footprint Center on October 31, 2023.
Devin Booker is ruled out for the Suns vs. Spurs game
Unfortunately, Devin Booker will not be available to participate against the Spurs today. After a dominant 32-point performance on opening night, No.1 will not appear for his third straight game. He’s currently recovering from a toe injury which was initially labelled as left foot soreness. Bradley Beal will also miss the Spurs game after he tweaked his back a week before the season commenced. Considering that it’s early in the season, the Suns aren’t taking any risks with Beal.
Devin Booker working his way back pic.twitter.com/V9GkBseTon
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) October 31, 2023
The Spurs do not have any injuries recorded. However, based on their previous performance, there are a lot of issues they need to fix to beat the Suns. Kevin Durant is more than capable of leading the team along with Eric Gordon in the starting lineup. So, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich will have to make sure Wembanyama and the squad focus on adding pressure to the Suns’ starting lineup.
Phoenix Suns Injury Report:
- Devin Booker (Out)
- Bradley Beal (Out)
- Damion Lee (Out)
Phoenix Suns Expected Lineup:
- Eric Gordon
- Grayson Allen
- Josh Okogie
- Kevin Durant
- Jusuf Nurkic
San Antonio Spurs Injury Report:
NIL
San Antonio Spurs Expected Lineup:
- Jeremy Sochan
- Devin Vassell
- Keldon Johnson
- Victor Wembanyama
- Zach Collins
Will the Spurs capitalize on Devin Booker’s absence?
During the Spurs’ game against the LA Clippers, Wembanyama only recorded 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. However, his defense was still better than most of his team’s as he recorded one block and two steals. The rookie has been very dominant within the paint which could be a threat to Durant. However, the Spurs have to do better offensively to make it far into the season.
Are you kidding me Victor Wembanyama?? 😳 pic.twitter.com/64d8NjSoGj
— NBA (@NBA) October 28, 2023
This might be an easy victory for the Suns to move up the rankings. Eric Gordon has been a great backup guard in Booker’s absence, especially after last game’s 21-point performance within 26 minutes of court time. Phoenix’s depth has proven itself to be one of the best in the league so far. Grayson Allen has also done a great job coming off the bench and taking on the starting shooting guard position.