With Devin Booker returning from injury, can Suns get out of the play-in?
CBS Sports
by
James Herbert
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Phoenix Suns' star Devin Booker is set to return from a right hip injury just as the team needs him most, potentially revitalizing their chances of securing a top-six seed in the Western Conference and avoiding the play-in tournament. Currently seventh in the conference with 34-26 record, Phoenix trails the sixth-place Los Angeles Lakers by two games. Booker's absence has been felt heavily, particularly in February when Phoenix struggled offensively, scoring at their lowest rate of the season (107.7 points per 100 possessions). His return comes at a critical time, with only 22 games remaining and key matchups against the Lakers on April 10.
The Suns have faced significant challenges this season due to injuries, including Booker's extended absence from a strained right ankle earlier in the year and a recent breakout by guard Dillon Brooks. With Brooks out for several weeks and other players like Jalen Green struggling offensively, Phoenix's offense has been inconsistent. The team's defensive depth is also thinning as Jordan Goodwin remains sidelined with a calf strain, leaving key defenders unavailable to contain top opposing wings.
Booker's return could alleviate the offensive burden on Collin Gillespie, Grayson Allen, and Green, who have shown promise but lack经验 in high-stakes situations. His court vision and scoring ability are expected to boost Phoenix's offense back to a top-10 level (117.8 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor). Additionally, Highsmith's potential return could provide much-needed defensive stability as he recovers from knee surgery.
Phoenix's remaining schedule is more favorable than that of the Lakers, offering an opportunity to climb in the standings without facing tougher opponents. While Los Angeles has outperformed its point differential this season, Phoenix has consistently demonstrated higher-level play and should
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/3/2026