Devin Booker showcased his star power on Saturday night, guiding the Phoenix Suns to a hard-fought 103-97 win over the visiting Portland Trail Blazers. Booker recorded 28 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, helping the Suns secure their fourth consecutive victory and a strong 5-1 start to the season. Despite leading by as many as 26 points in the fourth quarter, Phoenix had to fend off a fierce comeback from Portland, who cut the lead to just two points in the final minutes.
Devin Booker Leads the Suns’ Charge
With a near triple-double performance, Devin Booker was pivotal in guiding the Suns to victory. Booker’s 28 points came on clutch shooting, with timely baskets in the closing minutes that helped the Suns hold off Portland’s rally. His nine rebounds and nine assists underscored his all-around impact, as Booker effectively created opportunities for his teammates while also anchoring Phoenix’s defense.
Booker’s leadership on both ends of the floor was essential to Phoenix’s win. His baseline jumper with 1:18 left in the game provided breathing room for the Suns after Portland’s comeback bid brought the score within two points. Moments later, Booker calmly sank two free throws to help seal the win.
Have yourself a night, Book!
☄️ 28 PTS
☄️ 9 AST
☄️ 9 REB pic.twitter.com/E7oZ0UBFPE— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) November 3, 2024
Kevin Durant and Grayson Allen Provide Key Support
Kevin Durant contributed significantly to the Suns’ success, adding 21 points and nine rebounds. Durant’s consistency throughout the game helped Phoenix maintain control, particularly in the high-scoring third quarter that saw the Suns build a sizable lead. His contributions on the boards also helped the Suns limit Portland’s second-chance opportunities, proving invaluable in the game’s close moments.
Grayson Allen provided a spark off the bench, scoring 18 points, including a crucial stretch in the third quarter where he and Booker combined for 20 points. Allen’s energy helped the Suns seize momentum, especially when Portland struggled offensively. Bradley Beal and Tyus Jones also delivered solid performances, scoring 15 points apiece, adding depth to Phoenix’s attack.
A Third-Quarter Surge from Phoenix
Phoenix’s victory was largely secured through a dominant third quarter, where they outscored Portland 44-18. The Suns shot an impressive 60.7 percent in the quarter, making 9 of 18 three-pointers and extending their lead to 87-65 heading into the final period. Booker and Allen were instrumental during this stretch, with each player contributing 10 points.
The Suns’ 26-4 scoring run midway through the third quarter was a decisive turning point. This stretch included a 3-pointer from Royce O’Neale, which capped off the run and gave Phoenix an 80-58 lead. Beal’s basket with just over six minutes left in the third put the Suns firmly in control, and it seemed as if Phoenix was cruising to a comfortable win.
Portland’s Late Comeback Bid Falls Short
The Trail Blazers, led by Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons, mounted a valiant comeback in the fourth quarter. Both Grant and Simons scored 20 points, helping Portland go on a 15-0 run late in the game, narrowing Phoenix’s lead to just three points. The Blazers, who had been down by as many as 26 points, fought back with a combination of defensive pressure and effective three-point shooting to make it a contest.
Dalano Banton provided a clutch 3-pointer with just over a minute left, bringing Portland within two points at 99-97. Banton nearly gave Portland the lead, but his potential go-ahead three-point attempt rimmed out with 28.5 seconds remaining. This miss allowed the Suns to secure the victory through Booker and Jones, who each made crucial free throws in the final seconds.
Shooting Struggles for Both Teams
While Phoenix ultimately prevailed, both teams struggled with shooting efficiency throughout the game. The Suns shot 37.6 percent from the field, going 17-for-52 from three-point range. Portland’s shooting woes were equally apparent, as they shot just 33.3 percent from the field and made 14 of their 43 three-point attempts. The shooting difficulties highlighted each team’s reliance on defense and hustle plays to stay competitive.
Despite the struggles, Phoenix’s ability to capitalize on their third-quarter surge made the difference. The Suns’ defensive pressure during this period forced Portland into low-percentage shots, while their three-point shooting gave them enough cushion to weather Portland’s comeback attempt in the fourth quarter.
RELATED ARTICLES:
- NBA Roundup: Pascal Siakam’s OT Heroics Lead Pacers Over Celtics, Cavs Remain Undefeated, and More Action Highlights
- Bronny James Scores His First NBA Points in Hometown Cleveland Debut :‘A Dream Come True’
Key Takeaways: Suns’ Early Season Momentum
The win over Portland marked Phoenix’s fourth straight victory, adding to their impressive 5-1 start. The Suns’ ability to execute offensively in key stretches, particularly in the third quarter, demonstrates their depth and resilience. With Booker, Durant, and Beal as the core of their lineup, Phoenix has multiple scoring options, and players like Allen, Jones, and O’Neale are proving to be valuable assets.
Phoenix’s strong start to the season positions them as a contender in the Western Conference. The team’s ability to adapt to different game situations, as seen in their response to Portland’s comeback, will be crucial as the season progresses. Booker’s near triple-double performance exemplifies his leadership and versatility, which will be essential to the Suns’ success moving forward.
Trail Blazers: A Glimpse of Potential Despite Early Struggles
Portland’s loss to Phoenix was their fifth in seven games, but their late rally showed the team’s potential to compete against strong opponents. Grant and Simons continue to be bright spots for the Blazers, each scoring 20 points in the game and providing consistent offensive production. Deni Avdija added 13 points, while Dalano Banton and Deandre Ayton contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively, with Ayton also grabbing 13 rebounds.
Portland’s shooting struggles are an area of concern, but their ability to generate scoring opportunities in transition and through defensive plays highlights their potential. While the Blazers’ record currently places them near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, their resilience in the fourth quarter shows a team with untapped potential.
Looking Ahead: Suns Aim to Maintain Momentum
With a 5-1 record, the Suns are well-positioned for a successful season. Their depth, highlighted by solid bench contributions, will be a key advantage as they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks. Booker’s leadership, combined with Durant’s experience and Beal’s scoring ability, provides the Suns with a balanced lineup capable of challenging the top teams in the league.
Phoenix’s next games will test their consistency, but their ability to respond to Portland’s comeback shows a team that can handle pressure. The Suns’ strong start sends a message to the rest of the Western Conference: Phoenix is a team to watch.
