Suns Face Injury Challenges Ahead of Cavaliers Clash
PHOENIX — As the Phoenix Suns gear up for their New Year’s Eve matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the injury report has cast a shadow over the team’s preparations. Currently, the Suns (19-13) have listed Ryan Dunn as questionable due to a right knee contusion, while Grayson Allen is doubtful because of ongoing right knee injury management. Jalen Green, dealing with a right hamstring strain, remains sidelined.
Dunn has been out for the last two games, with his injury evolving from what was initially described as soreness to a more serious contusion. Allen, on the other hand, has missed six consecutive games. Green, who has struggled with injuries this season, is hoping for a re-evaluation next week after participating in only one full game so far.
Roster Adjustments Amidst Injury Woes
Despite these setbacks, the Suns have managed to maintain momentum, currently riding a four-game win streak. Mark Williams is set to return after serving a suspension for his involvement in a recent altercation during Phoenix’s victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Should Dunn and Allen remain unavailable, expect Rasheer Fleming and Isaiah Livers to continue stepping up and logging significant minutes.
The Cavaliers (18-16) will also face their own injury challenges in this matchup, missing key players such as Max Strus, who is recovering from left foot surgery, and Larry Nance Jr., who is nursing a right calf strain. Sam Merrill’s status is more optimistic, as he is listed as probable due to left hip soreness.
A Coach’s Return and Team Comparisons
This game will mark a significant moment for Suns coach Jordan Ott, as he faces his former team for the first time since being hired by Phoenix this summer. Ott spent a season as an assistant with the Cavaliers, and this matchup provides a unique opportunity to assess his team against the backdrop of his previous experience.
The Cavaliers have struggled to replicate their success from last season, already accruing two more losses than they had for the entirety of the 2024-25 season. This decline comes despite Donovan Mitchell’s impressive performance, as he averages 29.5 points per game on 49.2% shooting. Once first in the NBA with a 121 offensive rating, Cleveland now sits at No. 10 with a 116.1 rating, exhibiting difficulties in both field goal and three-point shooting percentages.
Defensive Strategies in Focus
Both the Suns and the Cavaliers thrive on converting defense into offense, with Cleveland ranking sixth in the league in points off turnovers per game at 20.4. The Suns, who sit second in the NBA for points off turnovers, must be vigilant to limit the Cavaliers’ transition opportunities, particularly on the road. Phoenix has found a rhythm offensively, scoring 115 or more points in five consecutive games, a trend they will aim to continue against a team that can quickly turn the tide if allowed to find its shooting groove.
Tomorrow’s game will tip off at 1:30 p.m. MST, promising an intriguing contest between two teams with similar styles and aspirations. As the Suns navigate their injury challenges, the outcome could hinge on their ability to control the pace and capitalize on defensive opportunities.
