Suns prepare to face Brunson in game against Knicks

PHOENIX — As the Phoenix Suns spiral further out of playoff contention, things won’t get any easier Sunday night when they face the New York Knicks — and Jalen Brunson is expected to be back on the floor.

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The Knicks’ All-Star guard is likely to make his return at Madison Square Garden after missing 15 games due to a right ankle sprain. It’s another blow to a Suns team that has now dropped five straight, including a 123-103 loss Friday to the Boston Celtics. Phoenix, now 35-42, is clinging to slim hopes of reaching the play-in tournament but sits two games behind the Sacramento Kings (37-40) for the final spot.

“The level we’re playing at right now just isn’t cutting it,” Suns point guard Tyus Jones said after Friday’s defeat — a game that further exposed Phoenix’s offensive woes and lack of cohesion, especially with key pieces missing.

They’ll once again be without Kevin Durant, who remains sidelined with a ankle injury. Bradley Beal returned Friday, but failed to make an impact, scoring just one point on 0-of-7 shooting. With limited firepower and chemistry issues continuing to surface, expectations are low heading to New York.

Brunson’s return adds even more weight to the challenge. The Knicks (49-28) have already clinched a playoff spot and will be looking to regain momentum with their floor general back. In their last matchup with the Suns, Brunson torched Phoenix with 36 points and 10 assists in a 138-122 victory at Footprint Center in November.

Now with the season hanging by a thread and another All-Star returning to the opposing lineup, the Suns will need to pull off a near-miracle to keep their faint postseason hopes alive.

Beal’s ice-cold return headlines Suns’ 20-point meltdown

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Reporter Reyna Stanley covers the Phoenix Mercury and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on X @rey_stanley776.