Imagine this: two key players from the Phoenix Suns, Jalen Green and Grayson Allen, are on the fence about playing in Sunday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers. But here’s where it gets tricky—both guards are dealing with injury management, and after a grueling double-overtime win against the Orlando Magic on Saturday, their availability is up in the air. Let’s break it down.
Green and Allen logged 36 and 33 minutes, respectively, in Saturday’s marathon game. For Allen, this marked his return after missing the first game out of the All-Star break and three straight games prior. Green, on the other hand, has been more consistent, playing in four of the Suns’ last five games. And this is the part most people miss—with back-to-back games and the physical toll of Saturday’s double overtime, it wouldn’t be shocking if either player sits out Sunday to recover.
Allen was on fire Saturday, leading the Suns with 27 points, including 4-of-14 from beyond the arc. He also chipped in seven rebounds, two assists, a block, and a steal. This season, the veteran has been a steady force, averaging 17.3 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 30.4 minutes per game.
Green, however, stole the show with a buzzer-beating, game-winning 3-pointer—one of his two made 3s on the night. He finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Despite shooting just 6-of-26 from the field, his clutch moment sealed the deal. In nine games this season, Green is averaging 13.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 18.9 minutes.
Here’s the controversial part: With Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Jordan Goodwin, Haywood Highsmith, and Cole Anthony all sidelined, the Suns are already short-handed. If Green and Allen sit, the team’s depth will be tested even further. Is it worth risking their health for one game, or should the Suns play it safe? Let’s discuss in the comments.
On the Trail Blazers’ side, All-Star forward Deni Avdija is questionable with a low back injury. Avdija has been a powerhouse this season, averaging 25 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.8 rebounds in 34.2 minutes. He played 30 minutes in their first post-All-Star game on Friday. Meanwhile, former Arizona Wildcats guard Caleb Love is out, missing what would’ve been his first homecoming game. But here’s a thought: With Avdija’s status uncertain, how will the Trail Blazers adjust their strategy against a potentially weakened Suns lineup? Share your predictions below!
This matchup is shaping up to be a battle of attrition, with both teams dealing with key injuries. Will the Suns risk their stars, or will the Trail Blazers capitalize on Phoenix’s potential absences? Tune in Sunday to find out—and don’t forget to join the debate in the comments!
