Suns Face Mounting Injury Concerns as Brooks, Booker Sidelined
PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns are navigating a challenging stretch as injuries mount, with key contributors Dillon Brooks and Devin Booker both expected to miss significant time. The news comes at a critical juncture for the Suns, who currently hold a 33-24 record and are firmly in the playoff conversation.
Brooks, acquired in the offseason trade that sent Kevin Durant to Houston, suffered a broken left hand during Saturday’s double-overtime victory against the Orlando Magic. He exited the game after just seven minutes of play, having registered five points and three rebounds. Sources confirmed to ESPN that the injury requires a significant recovery period, though a precise timetable is still being determined following consultations with team doctors on Sunday.
The injury to Brooks is a particularly concerning blow given his impact on the Suns since his arrival. He’s averaging a career-best 21.2 points per game, alongside 3.7 rebounds, and has brought a much-needed defensive intensity and veteran presence to the team. His scoring average represents a 6.9-point increase from last season, ranking sixth in the league among players who qualified for the scoring title in both seasons.
“Brooks is a key part to the playoff-contending Suns,” Shams Charania of ESPN reported on social media. The Suns are 3-4 in games without Brooks this season, highlighting his importance to their success.
The timing of Brooks’ injury is compounded by the existing absence of All-Star guard Devin Booker. Booker is sidelined with a right hip strain sustained during Thursday’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs and is expected to be out for at least one week. Booker, averaging 24.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in 44 games this season, recently returned from a seven-game absence due to a sprained right ankle.
The Suns’ injury woes don’t end with Brooks and Booker. Guard Haywood Highsmith is also continuing his recovery from right knee surgery, which he underwent last offseason. The team reports he is making “good progress” and will be re-evaluated in 2 to 3 weeks.
Despite these setbacks, the Suns have been one of the NBA’s surprise packages this season. Under first-year head coach Jordan Ott, the team has cultivated a new culture and identity, built around the leadership of Booker and Brooks, and a promising young core featuring Jalen Green, Collin Gillespie, Mark Williams, and Ryan Dunn.
With both Brooks and Booker out of the lineup, the Suns will need to rely on increased contributions from other players. Green is expected to see expanded minutes, having previously filled in for Brooks during Thursday’s game against the Spurs. Grayson Allen, who scored 27 points against the Magic, will also be looked upon to provide scoring punch. Collin Gillespie will likely see an increased role in the backcourt as well.
The Suns’ current record of 33-24 demonstrates their resilience and potential. However, navigating this stretch of injuries will be a significant test of their depth and adaptability. The team’s ability to remain competitive during this period will be crucial as they push for a favorable playoff seeding in the Western Conference.
The acquisition of Brooks last offseason was intended to add a defensive edge and veteran leadership to the Suns. His absence will be keenly felt, particularly on the defensive end. The team will need to find ways to compensate for his physicality and tenacity in the coming weeks.
The Suns’ front office will likely explore potential options to bolster the roster, but finding impactful players mid-season is often challenging. The focus will likely be on maximizing the contributions of the players already on the roster and hoping for swift recoveries from both Brooks and Booker.
The injury to Brooks underscores the unpredictable nature of the NBA season. The Suns, like many teams, will need to weather the storm of injuries and remain focused on their long-term goals. Their success will depend on their ability to stay healthy, maintain their competitive spirit, and continue to develop their young core.
