Slow Start for Suns
The Suns relied on a collective effort from their big three to score 69 points, securing a thrilling 108-107 comeback victory over the Kings, marking a crucial two-game winning streak during the playoff race.
Early Struggle and Kings’ Lead
The Suns struggled early in the game, trailing by nine points at halftime. Despite their efforts, the Kings managed to extend their lead to 70-54 at one point in the game.
Big Three Rally
However, led by the trio of Durant, Booker, and Beal, the Suns mounted a remarkable comeback in the second half. They narrowed the deficit to seven points by the end of the third quarter.
Clutch Plays Down the Stretch
In the decisive fourth quarter, Allen joined the scoring spree with timely three-pointers, keeping the Suns within striking distance. The game turned into a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading baskets.
Late Drama and Suns’ Victory
With 52 seconds remaining in the game, Durant made two crucial free throws to tie the score at 107-107. Then, in the final nine seconds, a critical foul by Sabonis sent Nurkic to the free-throw line, where he made one of two shots, giving the Suns a narrow 108-107 lead. Despite a last-second opportunity for the Kings, a turnover by Fox dashed their hopes of a comeback, securing the Suns’ victory by a single point.
Stat Leaders
Durant led the Suns in scoring with 28 points and added 5 rebounds. Booker contributed 21 points and 6 assists, while Beal recorded 20 points and 9 rebounds. For the Kings, Sabonis nearly notched a triple-double with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists, while Fox contributed 23 points and 6 assists.
Playoff Implications
With the win, the Suns improved to a record of 48 wins and 33 losses, currently holding the 7th seed in the Western Conference. They are just one game behind the 6th-seeded Pelicans and still have a chance to avoid the play-in tournament. If the Suns defeat the Timberwolves in their final regular-season game and the Pelicans lose to the Lakers, both teams will finish with a record of 49 wins and 33 losses. In that scenario, the Suns would advance to the 6th seed based on tiebreaker rules, securing a direct spot in the playoffs. (JILIEVO)
