PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns slid back onto the winning track with a convincing 110-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets on December 23, 2024. Despite missing two of their key players, the Suns delivered a determined performance, ending their three-game losing streak with this matchup.
Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal were exceptional for Phoenix, each scoring 27 points. The team played the game without Devin Booker, who is sidelined due to groin issues, and Grayson Allen, who is still working through concussion protocol. Yet, the Suns' spirit shone through, fighting back after suffering a heavy 117-90 defeat to the same Nuggets just this past Monday.
During the game, the Suns gained significant momentum and led by seven points after three quarters. By the mid-fourth quarter, they extended their lead to 99-81, putting the Nuggets at arm's length. The Suns managed to push their lead to 15 points and skillfully defended it down the stretch, showcasing their ability to control the pace and score when it mattered most.
"We came out today with the right mindset and energy!" exclaimed Suns coach Frank Vogel, praising his squad’s resilience. "Missing Devin and Grayson is tough, but the guys stepped up. Kevin and Bradley really led us well tonight."
Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, had 25 points and 15 rebounds for the Nuggets. He was aided by Michael Porter Jr., who contributed 22 points, and Russell Westbrook, with 17 points. Jamal Murray returned to action after missing the previous game due to a sprained ankle, finishing with 13 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Yet, the Nuggets couldn't match the intensity they displayed earlier.
The game was characterized by hot shooting early on. The Suns started strong, making six of their first seven three-point attempts and leading by nine early. Despite this, both teams had moments of back-and-forth scoring during the hot-shooting first half. The Nuggets attempted to rally but struggled to find their rhythm after the halftime break, managing just 8 of 29 from beyond the arc.
One pivotal moment came when Jokic took his rest late in the third quarter. The Suns capitalized on this window, extending their lead to 12 points before the star center re-entered the game. This tactical substitution by coach Michael Malone proved costly for Denver as the Suns increased their offensive pressure.
The Suns' performance emphasized their best game strategy: when they can outrun their opponents. Phoenix showcased this effectively, outscoring the Nuggets 15-6 on fast breaks. Monte Morris delivered strong contributions from the bench, adding 11 points and three assists to help maintain the team's momentum.
"It was about getting comfortable and finding the right rhythm with the pace of the game, especially with our offense spread out, which we executed tonight," said Durant, reflecting on the team's strategy.
With this victory, the Suns look to build on their performance when they face the Dallas Mavericks next. The Nuggets, on the other hand, are set to host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, hoping to bounce back and regain their winning edge.
Overall, this game was more than just another win for the Suns; it was about resilience, team effort, and finding ways to adjust and thrive against adversity. The Suns reside now with renewed confidence, having shown they could put up a fight against one of the league's top squads.
