PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns were without Khaman Maluach, Ryan Dunn, Koby Brea and Oso Ighodaro in Saturday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers, and it didn’t matter. A offensive explosion by guard Boogie Ellis in the first half gave Phoenix a massive cushion heading into halftime that it held for the rest of the way in its 111-87 win over Portland.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Ellis lead the way for Suns Blowout:
Ellis had a 17-point first half, where he shot six-for-eight from the field and five-for-seven from beyond the arc. Ever since his days at USC, Ellis has illustrated that he is an elite shot maker, regardless of how heavily contested. The 24-year-old help fueled a 40-9 Suns run that saw fellow reserves stepped up with the starters out.
Feb 7, 2024; Berkeley, California, USA; USC Trojans guard Boogie Ellis (5) dribbles the ball against the California Golden Bears during the second half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports
Khalif Battle, who scored a combined 12 points in the first three games, led all scorers with 21 points against Portland. After Ellis slowed down in the second half, Battle took over the show with an efficient eight-for-11 from the field. The backcourt combined for 40 points and had the Trail Blazers reeling with their dynamic playmaking.
Neither of the guards are currently expected to be on the roster, but with Phoenix’s lack point guard depth heading into the next season, Ellis and Battle could find themselves playing themselves into a roster spot.
Nov 15, 2022; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals forward Brandon Huntley-Hatfield (5) dribbles against Appalachian State Mountaineers forward CJ Huntley (15) during the first half at KFC Yum! Center. Appalachian State defeated Louisville 61-60. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Someone who will definitely will be on the roster is two-way forward CJ Huntley. The former Appalachian State wing signed with Phoenix after going undrafted and had his best performance in Summer League. The 6’11 forward overwhelmed Portland with his length, having 18 points, nine rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
Huntly went scoreless in his last two games in Vegas, playing a combined 25 minutes. In Saturday’s contest, he played 28 minutes in a starting role and highlighted how the 23-year-old can contribute to the Suns next season.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
