Grayson Allen’s Absence Overshadows Suns-Cavaliers Showdown
PHOENIX — As the Phoenix Suns prepare for a pivotal matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, they will have to navigate yet another game without a crucial piece of their roster. Grayson Allen, sidelined due to right knee injury management, will miss his seventh consecutive game today. This absence comes as the Suns face off against the Cavaliers on New Year’s Eve, a game with significant implications for both teams.
Ryan Dunn Returns to the Lineup
In contrast to Allen’s ongoing absence, Ryan Dunn has been cleared to play after recovering from a right knee contusion. Initially listed as questionable, Dunn missed the Suns’ last two games due to an injury sustained during the first half of last Friday’s victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. His return adds depth to the roster as the Suns aim to extend their current four-game winning streak.
The Road Ahead for Allen
While Allen remains unavailable, there is optimism surrounding his recovery. Reports suggest that his return is imminent, with Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro indicating that it is now “a matter of days instead of weeks.” Fans and teammates alike are hopeful that he will rejoin the lineup in one of the upcoming games—either at home against the Sacramento Kings or Oklahoma City Thunder, or on the road against the Houston Rockets.
Suns’ Collective Resilience
Despite Allen’s absence, the Suns have demonstrated remarkable resilience. They have managed to maintain their competitive edge, scoring 115 points or more in five consecutive contests and hitting over 40% from three-point range in their last two games. This performance is particularly impressive given that Allen ranks among the league’s elite three-point shooters. The team’s success can be attributed to a collective effort, with multiple players stepping up to fill the void left by injuries.
This collaborative spirit has been a hallmark of the Suns’ season, contributing to their solid 19-13 record, even with Jalen Green’s limited participation. Green has played just one full game this year due to a right hamstring strain, and he will again be watching from the sidelines today.
Cavaliers’ Injury Updates
On the Cavaliers’ side, they have also dealt with injury challenges. Sam Merrill, who has been a bright spot for Cleveland, has been upgraded to available after initially being listed as probable due to left hip soreness. Merrill is currently averaging a career-high 13.1 points while shooting 42.1% from beyond the arc. However, the Cavaliers will still be without Max Strus, who is recovering from left foot surgery, and Larry Nance Jr., who is dealing with a right calf strain.
Looking Ahead
As both teams prepare for the tip-off at 1:30 p.m. MST, the Suns are eager to carry their recent momentum into this matchup against first-year coach Jordan Ott’s former team. The stakes are high, and with a blend of determination and a deep roster, the Suns aim to rise to the occasion, proving that they can thrive even in the face of adversity.
