The Phoenix Suns have been decimated by injuries to start the 2023-24 season. Kevin Durant has been their only continuously healthy player, with Bradley Beal and Devin Booker already missing time. That’s a major reason they’re only 4-5 to begin the season. Friday’s loss against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers was another game without Book, who is perhaps the team’s most important player.
Following the game, KD stated how important it is for Phoenix to have Booker back:
“He gets this thing going. Without him, we can’t go where we want to. He simply puts so much pressure on defenses and guards 1 through 4, so we miss him and can’t wait to get him back. I know he’s eager to return, but it takes time to heal.”
Booker is definitely the Suns’ most explosive scorer, as we’ve seen this season. In his two regular season games, the former Kentucky standout has averaged 31.5 points, 10.5 assists, and 7.5 rebounds. He’s also a pest on defense.
The guard was first sidelined because of foot and ankle ailments. Now, he’s battling with a calf strain, and while Frank Vogel stated earlier this week that Booker is “making progress” in his rehab, there’s still no clear timeline for his return. He has not played since November 2nd.
The Suns have significant title expectations after dealing for Beal, who joins Kevin Durant and Devin Booker to form an exciting Big 3. However, until they are healthy, their championship aspirations will not come true.
Hopefully, Book can return to the floor soon and help Phoenix find its stride in the wide-open Western Conference.