Suns Face Injury Struggles as Playoff Hopes Dwindle

PHOENIX, Ariz. — The Phoenix Suns are grappling with significant player absences ahead of their matchup against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, as guards Bradley Beal, Grayson Allen, and center Mason Plumlee have all been ruled out due to injuries.

Plumlee is the latest addition to the injury report, having suffered a left quad strain during Monday’s victorious game over the Toronto Raptors, where he did not play in the second half. He joined Beal on the sidelines, who is still recovering from a left hamstring strain. Allen will miss his fifth consecutive game due to a left foot strain.

“Starting with Grayson, we’re still hopeful,” Suns coach Mike Budenholzer said regarding Allen’s recovery before the game against the Raptors. “We’ll see how he does each day, continue to get his rehab and hopefully make progress.”

Beal also sat out Monday’s game after his limited play against the Toronto Raptors, where he did not participate in the second half. Two-way player Collin Gillespie stepped in to make his first career start in Beal’s absence. “I feel bad for Brad,” Budenholzer added. “We’ve just got to find a way to try to keep him healthy. Hopefully get him right.”

Suns rookie big Oso Ighodaro had a productive outing against the Raptors, contributing nine points and nine rebounds as the backup to starting center Nick Richards. The Suns (32-37) are looking to string two victories together for the first time since January, having recently defeated the Bulls 121-117.

Devin Booker led in scoring for Phoenix on Monday, racking up 27 points to help the team achieve its largest margin of victory of the season. The Suns are currently a game behind the Dallas Mavericks (33-36) for the 10th seed and the final play-in spot in the Western Conference as the Mavericks prepare to face the Indiana Pacers.

“We need to win games,” Booker commented. “Hopefully (the Mavs) lose some. We can sneak into that 10, maybe nine spot and handle business when we get there.”

The Suns will focus on maintaining their momentum as they approach a crucial portion of the season, with playoff aspirations hanging in the balance. Beal’s absence remains a significant loss due to his scoring ability and leadership.

As Phoenix looks ahead to the Kings, the team will rely heavily on the performance of its remaining roster, including Booker and Kevin Durant, who have been central to the Suns’ offensive strategy this season. Adjustments will be crucial as the team enters a critical stretch of games.