Chances are that the Phoenix Suns’ trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul could play limited minutes against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.
According to Suns reporter Duane Rankin, head coach Monty Williams hinted that the players could only play the first half against the Lakers.
Monty Williams wouldn't say if Durant, Booker or Paul will play tomorrow, saying guys could play just the first half at #Lakers. https://t.co/QbDdx9IMKi
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) April 7, 2023
The move comes after the heavy minutes the Suns’ stars logged in their previous game against the Denver Nuggets. The 119-115 win they notched up saw Durant log 41 minutes while Paul and Booker played 37 minutes each.
Booker had a forgettable day with just 15 points, but Paul and Durant had 25 and 29 points to lead the Suns to a win and consolidate their playoff position. It does make sense if Williams decides to rest Durant. The veteran has come off an ankle sprain he sustained ahead of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder earlier this season.
Prior to his arrival in Phoenix, Durant also dealt with a sprain he sustained against the Miami Heat when he still played for the Brooklyn Nets. With their playoff spot booked, it won’t be a surprise if Durant is on the sidelines against the Lakers.
Can The Phoenix Suns Spoil The Los Angeles Lakers’ Hopes Of Finishing In Sixth Seed?
While the Phoenix Suns play Friday’s marquee clash against the Lakers with more freedom, the latter are under immense pressure to notch up a win, and press for a sixth-seed finish.
The Suns come into the game on the back of a seven-game winning streak, while LA has clawed back into postseason contention with some gutsy wins. They can afford to rest their big stars and a loss on Friday doesn’t affect their fourth-place standings.
All eyes will be on Durant as the contest also marks the first time he will be facing off against LeBron James for the first time since Christmas 2018. But the possibility of the Suns’ Big 3 not suiting up tomorrow will also give the Lakers’ a good shot at landing a win.
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