Suns Look to Build Momentum Against Resurgent Pelicans
The Phoenix Suns kick off a crucial four-game road trip tonight in New Orleans, facing off against the Pelicans in the first game of a back-to-back series. Fresh off a significant victory against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, the Suns are eager to carry their winning momentum into this matchup. However, they will be challenged by a Pelicans squad that has been on a roll, winning five of their last six games leading into Friday night’s contest.
Suns’ Starting Lineup
In a bid to secure another victory, head coach Jordan Ott has announced a starting lineup that features:
Devin Booker
Collin Gillespie
Royce O’Neale
Dillon Brooks
Mark Williams
The opening tip-off is set for 6:00 PM MST, and both teams are looking to gain an edge early.
Injury Updates and Impact
The Suns will be without two key players for tonight’s game: Jalen Green, sidelined due to a hamstring injury, and Grayson Allen, who is dealing with a knee issue. Green is expected to be re-evaluated in a few weeks, while Allen’s status remains uncertain as he is assessed on a game-to-game basis.
“It’s just time. It continues to progress. It’s just a time thing,” Ott remarked regarding Allen’s injury. “Anytime you get two days in between games in the NBA season, which I feel like we’ve had a lot here in December, that’s probably been around the NBA – but yeah, if we could have three days, it’d be better to get him back. We have two days to take advantage of it. Hope to see him in New Orleans.”
On the other side, the Pelicans are also facing injury woes, missing Herbert Jones due to a right ankle sprain and Dejounte Murray, who is out with a ruptured right Achilles.
Looking Ahead
The Suns previously faced the Pelicans on November 10, where they emerged victorious. As they prepare to take the court tonight, Booker expressed the team’s enthusiasm for embarking on this road trip. The stakes are high, and both teams will be looking to capitalize on their respective strengths while navigating the challenges posed by injuries. With the backdrop of a competitive Western Conference, every game counts, and the Suns aim to maintain their upward trajectory against a formidable opponent.
