Grayson Allen’s Injury Scare: Suns Coach Downplays Concerns After Key Player Exits
Phoenix — The atmosphere around the Phoenix Suns remains cautiously optimistic following Grayson Allen’s injury during a recent victory against the Indiana Pacers. Coach Jordan Ott addressed the media post-game, expressing a sense of relief regarding Allen’s condition.
“I haven’t seen the replay. We heard right there at the end of the first half that he wouldn’t be coming back. I think it was just a knee to the quad,” Ott explained. “I don’t think it’s anything serious. He was in good spirits there. Thankfully, we have two days in between games, finally, so I wouldn’t anticipate anything [serious], but we’ll take a look.”
The Incident with Allen
The injury unfolded in the first half when Allen collided with Indiana’s Jay Huff, leading to his immediate exit from the game. The Suns swiftly ruled him out with a right quad contusion. Before his departure, Allen had made a notable impact, scoring 12 points in just 12 minutes on an impressive 5-of-6 shooting, along with one rebound, two assists, and a steal. In his absence, Jordan Goodwin stepped in, and Collin Gillespie took over as a starter for the second half.
Allen’s Impact on the Suns’ Season
As the Suns have surged to an 8-5 start this season, Allen has played a crucial role, starting all 12 games prior to the injury. His three-point shooting stands out, boasting a robust 44.6% from beyond the arc. “He just shoots it from so far away with ease. We’re trying to get him to shoot more,” Ott remarked, recalling Allen’s recent career-high of 42 points. “We want him to take some shots where he doesn’t feel quite as comfortable all the time, but we know what he shoots. We need him to shoot more.”
Ott emphasized the importance of expanding Allen’s shooting repertoire. “We’ve tried to stress him to shoot tougher ones, more contested, off the dribble, as well as get downhill, get in the paint, make plays. It was awesome to see how his teammates pushed for him. He’s such an unassuming, quiet, well-mannered presence. He’s always another adult in the room. It’s great to see.”
Allen’s Versatility and Importance
Beyond his three-point shooting, Allen has showcased his ability as a slasher and finisher at the rim, adding a vital dimension to the Suns’ backcourt. With fellow player Jalen Green sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Allen’s contributions have become even more critical in the early stages of the season.
Looking ahead, the Suns will have a few days to regroup before facing the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday evening at the Mortgage Matchup Center. As the team prepares for the next challenge, the hope is that Allen’s injury will not hinder their momentum.
