Devin Booker led the Phoenix Suns (4-1) to a thrilling 125-119 win over the Los Angeles Clippers (2-3) on Thursday night. Booker’s impressive 40-point performance fueled a comeback from a 21-point deficit, helping the Suns improve their record to 4-1.
Phoenix scored 73 points in the second half after a sluggish start. Kevin Durant added 18 points, playing a crucial role in the team’s offensive surge.
The game took a pivotal turn when Booker made a corner three-pointer, putting the Suns ahead 108-105 with 5:15 remaining. This shot was a part of a scoring onslaught that allowed Phoenix to seize control in the final moments.
In addition to Booker and Durant, Royce O’Neale contributed significantly with 21 points, while Ryan Dunn added 16 points. Their timely three-pointers after halftime helped turn the momentum in favor of the Suns.
James Harden led the Clippers with a triple-double, scoring 25 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 13 assists. Despite Harden’s performance, the Clippers faltered late in the game, struggling to maintain their early advantage.
Los Angeles had been efficient in the first half, but they became stagnant and made critical mistakes in the second. After committing only a few turnovers early, the Clippers gave up eight turnovers in the second half, allowing Phoenix to capitalize.
The Suns’ comeback was also fueled by their fast-break scoring. After being outscored 11-0 in fast breaks during the first quarter, Phoenix outscored Los Angeles 21-5 in fast-break points for the remainder of the game.
The absence of Bradley Beal due to an elbow injury posed a challenge for the Suns. However, they adapted well, demonstrating depth and teamwork in the second half to overcome this setback.
Phoenix’s defense tightened as the game progressed. The Suns finished the game shooting 51.2% from the field and hitting 18 of 39 three-pointers.
On the other hand, the Clippers struggled with their shooting efficiency, finishing the game at 48.4% from the floor and hitting just 12 of 35 attempts from beyond the arc.
The Suns have now secured two victories over the Clippers in just eight days, reinforcing their position in the early-season standings.
