The Phoenix Suns are grappling with significant challenges as they push for the final spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament. The recent announcement from head coach Mike Budenholzer about Bradley Beal being sidelined due to a hamstring injury adds to the team's already high stakes.
On March 17, 2025, Budenholzer revealed to the media, "I feel bad for Brad. We've just got to find a way to try to keep him healthy. Hopefully, get him right." Beal sustained the injury during the second half of the Suns' 107-96 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on March 16, where he managed to score just four points and secure two rebounds before exiting the game.
The Suns, currently sporting a 31-37 record, find themselves 1.5 games behind the Dallas Mavericks for the final play-in spot. The stakes are incredibly high as the regular season draws to a close, with every upcoming game now taking on added significance. Budenholzer's announcement will keep Beal out for at least one week as he is set to be reevaluated on March 24, coinciding with the Suns' matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
This season has seen Beal already miss 20 out of the 68 games, leading to questions about his overall effectiveness on the team. His current averages—17.3 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds—mark his lowest scoring since his days with the Washington Wizards. Interestingly, he also holds the worst net rating on the Suns this season at -7.8, reflecting the struggles he has faced on the floor.
Despite these setbacks, there’s hope within the organization. The Suns are scheduled to play three home games this week: against the Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, and NBA-leading Cleveland Cavaliers. Each game becomes not only about immediate results but setting the stage for the rest of the season.
"We have to get ready to go play tonight and each night," Budenholzer asserted as the season gets more competitive. With Beal’s absence, other players will need to step up to shoulder the workload alongside stars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. Coach Budenholzer will likely lean more heavily on Ryan Dunn and Tyus Jones to fill the gaps until Beal is cleared to return. Beal's absence is undeniably difficult, especially as the playoff race heats up.
The Suns could find themselves at a pivotal moment, with every matchup against formidable opponents necessitating peak performance. Devin Booker acknowledged the frustration saying, "If you’re playing with energy and effort, you can sleep well at night regardless, and I don’t think we’re doing too well right now." This sentiment highlights the necessity for the team to cultivate consistency, especially with the pressure mounting.
The next match against the Raptors (who currently have their own challenges with injuries) will be another test of the Suns’ resilience. The Raptors head to Phoenix with key players like RJ Barrett and Brandon Ingram missing, creating potential opportunities for the Suns. Yet, the Raptors have been performing well, winning six of their last ten games, making them dangerous opponents.
The Suns begin their pivotal week against the Raptors on Monday, March 17, followed by the Chicago Bulls on March 19 and concluding with the Cavaliers on March 21, before facing the Bucks exactly one week later. How the team performs without Beal could dictate whether they remain contenders or falter at the finish line. The coming days will reveal whether they have the depth and tenacity to weather yet another storm as they chase their playoff dreams.
