Suns Regain Momentum with Game-Changing Win Against Lakers

The Phoenix Suns reclaimed their momentum with a thrilling 113-110 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. This win came just two nights after their coach Jordan Ott remarked that the Boston Celtics had taken their “mojo.” Facing the Lakers provided the ideal opportunity for the Suns to reassert themselves, especially as they had previously triumphed against this opponent twice this season.

Suns’ Resilience Without Key Players

Despite missing star players Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, and Jordan Goodwin due to injuries, the Suns demonstrated remarkable resilience. Coach Ott emphasized the team’s strong mindset, stating that they were focused on playing effectively for the full 48 minutes.

• Missing Players:
  • Devin Booker: Right hip strain
  • Dillon Brooks: Left hand fracture
  • Jordan Goodwin: Left calf strain

This victory significantly boosted the Suns’ confidence after dropping seven of their last ten games. The team had previously struggled, but this win reminded them of their potential despite being shorthanded.

Contributions from the Bench

The Suns’ bench played a crucial role, contributing 56 points, compared to just 25 from the Lakers’ reserves. Grayson Allen led the way with an impressive 28 points, showcasing the depth of the Phoenix roster.

Ott made a notable decision by substituting all his starters early in the third quarter, a tactical move rarely seen in the NBA. This change proved beneficial as the bench players responded by cutting the Lakers’ lead and shifting the game’s momentum.

Key Moments of the Game

The game reached a critical point when the Suns were able to push their lead to ten points late in the fourth quarter. However, the Lakers mounted a comeback, with Marcus Smart hitting important shots, including a three-pointer that brought the game close.

In the final moments, Allen made a crucial drive, delivering a key assist to Collin Gillespie, who then passed to Royce O’Neale for the winning shot. O’Neale’s three-pointer solidified the Suns’ victory.

Emerging Talent

Rasheer Fleming, a second-round pick, also made a noteworthy impact. He displayed significant improvement, affecting both ends of the floor and providing a spark for his teammates. His performance indicates a promising future for the Suns as they move through the season.

Looking Ahead

This victory sets the stage for the Suns as they prepare for upcoming games against Sacramento, Chicago, New Orleans, and Charlotte. The next contest will present yet another opportunity for the team to build on this momentum, particularly as they await the return of Booker.

As the Suns look to maintain their recent success, the focus will undoubtedly remain on their chemistry and depth, allowing them to navigate the challenges ahead effectively.