Subscribe
Follow Us
The Phoenix Suns (10-32) will have to play the Dallas Mavericks (18-22) without their star guard Devin Booker, who is out due to a back injury.
Devin Booker will not play tonight vs Dallas.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) January 9, 2019
The Suns can't seem to catch a break. They have lost eight of their last ten games and are currently the only team in the Western Conference that has no legitimate chance to make the playoffs. Devin Booker's recent injury just hurts their chances even more.
Phoenix will now have to fill the void that will be left by Booker, who is currently averaging 24.8 points, 3.7 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game.
Booker's recent setback is something that the Suns have to monitor moving forward. Although the 22-year-old has been outstanding for the franchise, he's also been racking up injuries since the beginning of last season.
He missed 28 games last year due to different injuries, including knee, foot, back and hand issues.
Just this year, Booker has already been sidelined with a left pinky strain, a hamstring strain, a toe injury and a back contusion. He has missed 11 games so far.
With Booker's absence, this year's first overall pick DeAndre Ayton will have to carry much of the load for the Suns against the Mavs. He's putting up 16.7 points and 10.7 rebounds on a nightly basis while shooting 60.7 percent from the field.
Ayton had 17 points and 12 boards in Phoenix's win against the Sacramento Kings.
Former lottery pick Josh Jackson will have to contribute as well, and adding to his 11 points per game average is a must.
Phoenix has given no timetable for Booker's return.
