PHOENIX — In a solid performance, Devin Booker netted 34 points, contributing significantly to the Phoenix Suns’ 114-106 win over the Utah Jazz on Saturday night.
Booker was particularly dominant in the first half, scoring 22 points and shooting at an impressive 87.5% from the field (7-of-8), with 80% accuracy from three-point territory (4-of-5). By the end of the game, he concluded with a shooting line of 12 for 20, including 6 from beyond the arc.
Kevin Durant added 25 points to the Suns’ tally, who managed to maintain a lead that swelled to as much as 16 points in the contest. However, they faced challenges in fully subduing the Jazz until the fourth quarter. Grayson Allen was a significant contributor for Utah, scoring 14 points, with nine of those coming in the crucial final minutes.
Since coach Mike Budenholzer modified the Suns’ rotation, placing Bradley Beal on the bench, the team has won three of its last four outings. Ryan Dunn has stepped into the forward position in the starting lineup, further stabilizing the team dynamics.
On the Jazz’s side, Lauri Markkanen led the scoring with 24 points, while Collin Sexton added 20. Walker Kessler also made a notable contribution with 16 points and 13 rebounds, and former Sun Drew Eubanks assisted with 11 rebounds. This matchup marked the Suns’ third victory over the Jazz this season.
A few important points: the Jazz were without regular contributors Jordan Clarkson, Keyonte George, and John Collins. Nonetheless, they received noteworthy performances from reserves Svi Mykhailiuk and Cody Williams, who both tallied 13 points.
For the Suns, Beal recorded his lowest scoring night since transitioning to a reserve role, managing just 12 points in 31 minutes of play, yet he continues to average over 30 minutes in his new position.
A key moment in the game occurred early in the fourth quarter when Allen sank his only three-pointer, reducing the Suns’ lead to six points. Following this, the Suns capitalized and widened their advantage.
Additionally, Mason Plumlee started in place of Jusuf Nurkic—who missed his second consecutive game due to suspension—and scored five of the Suns’ first points, concluding the game with six points and 10 rebounds.
Looking ahead, both teams are scheduled to play again on Sunday, with Utah facing off against Brooklyn and Phoenix taking on Charlotte.
