Throughout the game, Booker showcased his skills, including a crucial corner 3-pointer that put Phoenix ahead 108-105 with just over five minutes to play. The Suns exploded offensively in the second half, netting a total of 73 points to secure their second win in eight days at the Clippers’ new arena.
Booker and Durant were instrumental in shifting the momentum during the third quarter, combining for a total of 20 points that sparked the Suns’ resurgence. Meanwhile, Royce O’Neale also made significant contributions, finishing the game with 21 points, while Ryan Dunn chipped in with 16 points, each hitting critical long-range shots following halftime.
Despite a strong performance from James Harden, who recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists, the Clippers faltered once again. This loss followed their previous night’s heartbreaker, where they surrendered a late lead in a one-point defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers.
One pressing takeaway from the Suns’ performance is that they managed to persevere even without the presence of Bradley Beal, who missed the game due to an elbow injury. Phoenix’s ability to rally in the second half demonstrated their resilience and depth.
In contrast, the Clippers began the game effectively, limiting turnovers and maintaining good ball movement. However, they became stagnated and careless in the latter portions of the game, ultimately handing away a winnable contest.
A pivotal moment came when Harden mismanaged the ball in the paint, opening the door for Durant to find Booker for the game-leading basket. This play was part of a concerning trend for the Clippers, as they committed eight turnovers in the second half alone.
Key statistics reveal that the Suns had a significant turnaround after being outscored 11-0 in the first quarter, later dominating with a 21-5 advantage in fast-break points for the remainder of the game.
Moving forward, the Suns are set to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, while the Clippers will welcome the Oklahoma City Thunder to their arena.