Suns star Devin Booker exited the game early against the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night, suffering a groin injury. Initially, Booker performed strongly, scoring 11 points in the opening quarter. However, with just over two minutes remaining in the period, he left the court and did not return.
Details of the Injury
The exact moment of Booker’s injury remains unclear. The Phoenix Suns promptly ruled him out with a right groin injury. At the time of his departure, he had recorded three assists and two rebounds along with his 11 points. This season marks Booker’s 11th year in the NBA, during which he has been averaging 25.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
History of Groin Injuries
This incident is particularly concerning as it marks the third December in the last four years that Booker has sustained a groin injury. In December 2022, he missed 20 games due to a similar issue, and he also sat out five games the prior season.
Suns’ Performance Without Booker
Despite losing Booker, the Suns secured a convincing 125-108 victory over the Lakers. Dillon Brooks led the team with an impressive 33 points, while Collin Gillespie contributed 28 points, including eight three-pointers. The Suns ended the second quarter on a dominating 19-4 run and maintained their lead throughout the second half.
Lakers’ Statistics
Luka Dončić topped the Lakers’ performance with 38 points, as well as 11 rebounds and five assists. Austin Reaves chipped in with 16 points, but LeBron James struggled to find his rhythm. In his fifth game back after recovering from a sciatica injury, he managed to score 11 points, shooting just 3-of-10 from the field. His record streak of double-digit scoring was at risk in the fourth quarter, but he quickly scored four points before exiting the game permanently.
Upcoming Matches
- The Suns will face the Houston Rockets next, scheduled for Friday.
