The direction for the Phoenix Suns wasn’t bound to change despite the outcome of Friday. The Suns were in the Crytpo.com Arena visiting the Los Angeles Lakers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Phoenix was without all of its starters. Given the fourth seed being a sure guarantee, rest was the smart move to prepare for the playoffs.
The Lakers, in the midst of readying for the play-in, still deployed LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
There were nine lead changes in the game nearly halfway through the third quarter. Given the projected stature of the bout, Phoenix being close to winning in the contest made it interesting.
The Lakers went on a 11-0 run with seven minutes left in the fourth quarter however. In the end, the Lakers were able to take night, winning 121-107.
Torrey Craig Gives Life to Suns
The question of which role player would be the X-factor going into the playoffs is ever-changing. On Friday, Craig became the newest candidate.
Craig has had multiple moments this season where he’ been a heavy contributor off the bench. With 29 minutes of play, the 6’7″ forward was able to contribute 18 points, shooting 8-of-12 from the field. He also grabbed six rebounds while having four blocks.
Craig’s ability to takeover in the third quarter proved helpful in the Suns’ efforts.
Landale Replaces Biyombo
The Suns’ chances on winning took a drop in the second quarter. Bismack Biyombo injured his knee in a knee-to-knee collision with Anthony Davis, putting him out for the game.
Though not as defensively capable, Jock Landale would be heavily relied upon as the remaining true big.
Landale did his best in the outing for Phoenix. He scored 15 points while grabbing 10 rebounds through 29 minutes of play. He also shot 8-of-13 from the floor.
For the most part, Landale has been reliable when called upon this season. He may have to continue that dependency pending the result of Biyombo’s injury.
Overall, the showing from the Phoenix reserves was pleasant. Role players were able to step up and challenge James and Davis to a hard-fought win.
The Suns have one game remaining in the regular season against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.
