## Trail Blazers vs Suns: A Crucial Clash in Phoenix
Who: Phoenix Suns (33-24) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (27-30)
When: 6:00 PM Arizona Time
Where: Footprint Center – Phoenix, Arizona
Watch: Arizona’s Family 3TV, Arizona’s Family Sports, Suns+
Listen: KMVP 98.7
The Phoenix Suns are back in action Sunday night, less than 24 hours after a grueling double-overtime victory against Orlando. That game, fueled by Jalen Green’s clutch three-pointer, was a defining moment for the team. However, the celebration was short-lived as Dillon Brooks suffered a broken hand, leaving his return timeline uncertain. Such is the reality of the NBA – a constant cycle of challenges and adjustments.
The Suns now face the Portland Trail Blazers, who trail Phoenix by six games in the standings and currently hold the 10th seed. While the matchup appears favorable on paper, the Suns are battling a mounting injury list and lingering fatigue. This game will require a significant effort to secure a win.
### Injury Report: A Mounting Concern
The Suns’ injury report is extensive, posing a significant challenge for tonight’s game:
* **Jalen Green** – QUESTIONABLE (Right Knee Injury Management)
* **Grayson Allen** – QUESTIONABLE (Right Ankle Sprain)
* **Devin Booker** – OUT (Right Hip Strain)
* **Dillon Brooks** – OUT (Left Hand)
* **Jordan Goodwin** – OUT (Left Calf Strain)
* **Haywood Highsmith** – OUT (Right Knee Injury)
* **Cole Anthony** – OUT (Not With Team)
* **Deni Avdija** – QUESTIONABLE (Low Back, Injury Management)
* **Damian Lillard** – OUT (Left Achilles Tendon)
* **Shaedon Sharpe** – OUT (Left Calf Strain)
With so many key players sidelined, the question becomes: who will step up? Expect a reliance on three-point shooting, as Portland allows opponents to attempt the second-most threes in the league (42.5 per game).
### Key Matchup: Rebounding and Three-Point Shooting
Portland’s size presents a challenge for the Suns. The Trail Blazers are sixth in the league in rebounding (45.9 per game) and third in offensive rebounding rate (35.4%). This translates to a league-leading 18.3 second-chance points per game, largely thanks to Donovan Clingan’s impressive 4.7 offensive rebounds per game. Controlling the glass will be crucial for Phoenix.
Furthermore, the Suns need to improve their three-point shooting. Currently shooting 34.2% from beyond the arc (23rd in the NBA), they rely heavily on the three-ball, with 47.3% of their shots coming from deep. With Booker out, the responsibility falls on players like Collin Gillespie, Royce O’Neale, Grayson Allen, and Ryan Dunn to convert open looks.
### Potential X-Factor: Khaman Maluach?
Given the size mismatch, it might be an opportune time to give rookie Khaman Maluach a look. His size and physicality could provide a much-needed presence on the boards and absorb contact. While it may not be a full experimentation phase yet, against Portland, it’s worth considering.
### Expect the Unexpected
The Suns are facing adversity, but they’ve shown resilience. Their double-overtime win against Orlando demonstrated their fighting spirit. This game against Portland feels like one where effort and timing will be more important than flawless execution. It’s a night where a role player could emerge and make a significant impact. Royce O’Neale feels like a player poised for a strong performance.
**Prediction:** Suns 118, Trail Blazers 115
For more in-depth NBA analysis, check out [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/nba/).
