Phoenix Suns grapple with injury woes ahead of Wizards showdown
The Phoenix Suns are navigating a tough stretch as they prepare to face the Washington Wizards on the final leg of their four-game road trip. With a record of 18-13, the Suns are dealing with significant injuries that could hinder their performance against a struggling Wizards team.
Injury Report
Ryan Dunn is listed as questionable for the upcoming game due to right knee soreness, an injury he sustained during Phoenix’s recent victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Dunn was unable to participate in Saturday’s win against the same opponent, raising concerns about his availability moving forward.
The Suns will also be missing Grayson Allen, who has been sidelined for the past five games due to right knee injury management. Jalen Green’s situation is more precarious; he has played only one full game this season because of a right hamstring strain, and he is set for re-evaluation between January 5 and January 12.
Wizards’ Challenges
On the other side of the court, the Wizards (6-23) are grappling with their own set of injuries as they head into a back-to-back matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies tonight. They will be without key players including Kyshawn George, who is dealing with left hip flexor soreness, Corey Kispert with a left hamstring strain, and Cam Whitmore, who is afflicted by right shoulder deep vein thrombosis.
What to Expect in Suns vs Wizards
Tomorrow’s matchup marks the first encounter between the Suns and Wizards this season. The Wizards are currently tied for the fewest wins in the NBA, boasting just six victories. Over the past two seasons, they have managed only 33 wins combined, and this year, they are struggling with a net rating of -12.4, the worst in the league. Their defensive rating also sits at the bottom, allowing 122.7 points per 100 possessions.
Leading the scoring for Washington is CJ McCollum, averaging 18.7 points per game, closely followed by last season’s No. 2 pick, Alex Sarr, who contributes 18.2 points per game.
Suns’ Recent Form
In contrast, the Suns enter this game riding a three-game winning streak, having recently secured back-to-back victories over the Pelicans. Under the guidance of new coach Jordan Ott, the Suns have emerged as one of the more surprising teams this season, defying preseason expectations. They currently rank 11th in the NBA in defensive rating (113.5), 13th in offensive rating (114.7), and 13th in net rating (1.3).
Key players like Devin Booker, averaging 25.4 points per game, and Dillon Brooks, contributing 21.4 points, have been pivotal in driving Phoenix’s offensive success. Recently, the Suns have found their rhythm, scoring 115 or more points in four consecutive games.
Tomorrow’s game is set to tip off shortly after 5:00 p.m. MST, offering an intriguing matchup as both teams vie for an essential win amidst their current struggles.
