Phoenix Suns anticipate Grayson Allen’s return as knee injury recovery progresses
The Phoenix Suns embark on a crucial four-game road trip with optimism surrounding the potential return of Grayson Allen. The sharpshooter has been sidelined for the last three games due to a right knee injury, but recent updates from the team suggest that he may be inching closer to a comeback.
Coach’s Optimism
Before the Suns faced the Los Angeles Lakers, head coach Jordan Ott provided an encouraging assessment of Allen’s condition.
“It’s just time. It continues to progress. It’s just a time thing. Anytime you get two days in between [games] in the NBA season — which I feel like we’ve had a lot here in December with the schedule breakup — that’s probably been around the NBA,” Ott explained.
He added that while the team is making the most of their current schedule, an additional day of rest would be beneficial. “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,” he said.
This update brings a glimmer of hope for the Suns as they prepare to resume action on Friday, though they will continue to navigate the season without Jalen Green for the foreseeable future.
Upcoming Challenges
The Suns face a challenging back-to-back against the New Orleans Pelicans this weekend, followed by road games against Washington on Monday and Cleveland on Wednesday. If Allen can return, his presence could significantly boost the team’s chances in these critical matchups.
Grayson Allen’s Season Impact
Before his injury, Allen had become a vital component of the Suns’ lineup, starting all 18 games alongside Devin Booker. He provided a potent mix of perimeter shooting and aggressive drives to the basket, demonstrating his ability to impact the game on multiple levels.
“He just shoots it from so far away with ease. We’re trying to get him to shoot more; his career numbers always shoot at a high clip,” Ott remarked earlier this season after Allen broke a franchise record for three-pointers in a single game.
The coaching staff has encouraged Allen to expand his offensive repertoire, taking more challenging shots and attacking the rim. “We want him to take some where he doesn’t feel quite as comfortable all the time, but we know what he shoots. We need him to shoot more,” Ott noted.
His contributions extend beyond scoring; Allen’s demeanor and professionalism have made him a respected presence in the locker room. “He’s such an unassuming, quiet, well-mannered, organized player. He’s always another adult in the room, it’s great to see,” Ott added.
As the Suns improved to 16-13 with their recent victory over the Lakers, the prospect of Allen’s return—along with the eventual comeback of Green—adds to the team’s aspirations for a strong postseason run. The intensity of the upcoming road trip will test the depth and resilience of the Suns, but with key players on the mend, hope remains high.
