PHOENIX – The Suns enter tonight’s matchup against the Timberwolves with a real opportunity to notch another win and potentially secure crucial tiebreakers against Western Conference contenders.
A win tonight would push the Suns ahead of the Wolves in the standings, though they’ll face this challenge without one key player.
Ryan Dunn was ruled out before tip-off due to an ankle sprain sustained early in the Suns’ win over the Washington Wizards, forcing the team to make adjustments.
Head coach Mike Budenholzer decided to keep the same starting lineup that helped secure a victory against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday:
Tyus Jones
Devin Booker
Royce O’Neale
Kevin Durant
Nick Richards
Booker has taken on more playmaking duties in January, tallying seven games with 7 or more assists as he has increasingly handled the ball.
Before tip-off, Dunn’s availability was uncertain, but Budenholzer confirmed he would be active, even though O’Neale will start regardless.
Durant was listed as questionable due to a thumb injury sustained late in the previous game, but he has been cleared to play.
Since joining the Suns two weeks ago, Richards has had two standout performances and will now face Rudy Gobert tonight.
The Suns-Timberwolves game is scheduled to tip-off shortly after 7 P.M. Arizona time tonight.
