There is still hope for the Phoenix Suns after staring down an 0-2 deficit coming into Game 3 against the Denver Nuggets. As the game progressed, there was uncertainty settling in for the Phoenix faithful.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!One one hand, Devin Booker was on a complete tear, carrying the Suns for most of the contest. The contrary composed of a situation where Booker would eventually run out of energy, giving way for Denver to best Phoenix.
Yet Booker’s impeccable performance continued down to the final seconds, with the Suns winning Game 3 with a 121-114 final score.
Booker and Durant Combine for 86 Points
Devin Booker gave a legendary performance in Game 3, and it should not go unnoticed behind the Suns’ victory.
From the opening tip, Booker looked to get his shot early and often. He scored 18 points in the first quarter alone. As the contest progressed, it was clear the Phoenix would have to lean on Booker to have any chances of winning Game 3.
As for Kevin Durant, his superstardom talents didn’t appear on full view until the second half. With Durant quickly realizing it wasn’t his night from the floor, he made most of his work from the free-throw line. Durant shot 14-of-16 from the line for the entire game, making up nearly half of his points.
For perspective, Durant was responsible for all of the free-throw attempts for Phoenix except for two.
Booker went on to continue his electric performance with 47 points to end the game. He also made time to dish out nine assists and six rebounds. Durant was able to contribute some clutch baskets late in the fourth quarter, finishing the outing with 39 points, nine rebounds and eight assists.
The Ever-Growing Bench Problem
The Achilles heel to the Suns’ postseason woes has been the depth they possess compared to that of the Nuggets. Head coach Monty Williams has been criticized for his lack of rotation identity.
After seeing Terrance Ross with little to no playing time, along with T.J. Warren, both were on full display in Game 3.
The end result from the bench wasn’t that pretty, especially with Cameron Payne being inserted into the starting lineup. The bench combined for 22 points, shooting 2-of-10 from the three-point range.
Warren was able to deliver some critical baskets with mere minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. He delivered five points to help seal off Denver.
With the win, the Suns now have a chance to tie the series once more on Sunday at home.
