Phoenix Suns faced off against the Houston Rockets in a thrilling match that ended with a heartbreaking loss for the Suns. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Suns ultimately fell short, losing by a narrow margin of 114-110.
The game was filled with intense moments and jaw-dropping plays from both teams. The Suns fought hard throughout the game, displaying their resilience and determination to come out on top. However, the Rockets proved to be a formidable opponent, showcasing their skill and teamwork on the court.
Bradley Beal (hamstring), the Suns dropped their second straight since returning from the All-Star break.
Durant had the game-high 28 points, and passed Carmelo Anthony for ninth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list early in the fourth quarter. Durant added 11 rebounds and the team-high eight assists.
Bol Bol tremendously stepped up for Phoenix’s usual starting center Jusuf Nurkic, who was sidelined from a right ankle sprain. Bol had 25 points, team-high 14 rebounds, one steal, and one block in 26 minutes off the bench. Devin Booker matched Bol's 25 points in the loss.
Grayson Allen could also see more time with the ball in his hands tonight - and the Suns could possibly use an aggressive night from the guard, as Allen has only crossed 10 shot attempts in two games this month.
Tonight could also mark the debut of Thaddeus Young in a Suns uniform, as the Nurkic absence leaves a spot on the bench rotation for either Young or Bol Bol.
Smith then intentionally fouled Durant and his first shot rolled in and out of the basket before the Suns were called for a lane violation on the second attempt.
VanVleet missed a free throw with four second left, but Houston got the rebound. Alperen Sengun made 1 of 2 free throws to make it 114-110 and seal the victory.
“I think the execution was decent,” Houston coach Ime Udoka said. “We like to get it to specific guys for the foul shots and we couldn't quite get it to Fred sometimes. But other guys stepped up and made them.”
The Rockets lost to the Suns at home by a decisive 129-113 margin in their previous matchup back in December of 2023. A big factor in that loss was the dominant performance of the Suns' Kevin Durant, who dropped a triple-double on 27 points, ten rebounds, and 16 assists. Now that the Rockets know the damage he can cause, will they be able to stop him this time? There's only one way to find out.
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