Devin Booker and Kevin Durant Shine in Suns’ High-Scoring Win Over Jazz

Devin Booker poured in 34 points and dished out eight assists, while Kevin Durant returned to the lineup with a 30-point, eight-assist performance to lead the Phoenix Suns past the Utah Jazz, 134-126, on Friday night.

The win snapped a three-game skid for the Suns, who were bolstered by key returns and a high-octane offense.

Durant’s Impactful Return

After missing three games due to a left ankle sprain, Durant showed no signs of rust, seamlessly rejoining Phoenix’s attack and delivering in crunch moments. His presence not only bolstered the Suns’ scoring but also opened up opportunities for teammates, exemplifying his importance to their success.

Booker Continues to Dominate

Booker’s 34-point effort, highlighted by timely shooting and playmaking, underlined why he remains the heart of Phoenix’s offense. His three quick baskets to open the second half helped the Suns build a lead they wouldn’t relinquish, while his ability to hit back-to-back threes in pivotal moments energized the home crowd.

Supporting Cast Steps Up

The Suns also welcomed back Jusuf Nurkic, who had missed five games with injuries. His return provided much-needed size and interior presence, complementing the backcourt firepower of Booker and Durant. Tyus Jones delivered a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists, ensuring the offense stayed efficient and fluid.

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Jazz Fight but Fall Short

Jordan Clarkson’s return from a seven-game absence was a bright spot for Utah. The veteran guard scored a team-high 23 points and sparked several runs, including a stretch where the Jazz scored on six straight possessions in the second quarter. However, despite shooting a blistering 56% from beyond the arc and making 22 threes, Utah couldn’t keep pace with Phoenix’s balanced attack.

John Collins chipped in 22 points, and Lauri Markkanen added 19, but the Jazz’s defense struggled to contain Phoenix’s dynamic duo of Booker and Durant.

Turning Points Define the Game

After trailing 53-44 in the second quarter, Phoenix went on a 12-0 run, fueled by Booker’s sharpshooting, to take a 63-58 lead. From that point, the Suns never looked back. The Jazz made it interesting in the third, pulling within two points at 99-97, but a 9-2 Suns run, capped by a finger-roll layup from Ryan Dunn, pushed the lead back to 108-99.

Utah never got closer than four points in the fourth quarter, as Phoenix’s stars delivered when it mattered most.

Suns’ Depth Shines

Phoenix’s ability to weather injuries and lean on its depth was on full display. Despite recent struggles, their balanced scoring and defensive adjustments allowed them to reclaim momentum in the Western Conference playoff race.

Key Stats

The game was a showcase of modern NBA offense, with the Suns and Jazz combining for 44 made 3-pointers. The Suns’ 16 combined assists from Booker and Durant highlighted their ability to create for others, while Utah’s long-range shooting kept them competitive despite being outplayed inside.

What’s Next

The Suns look to build on this win when they host Portland on Sunday, while the Jazz face another challenge on Monday as they visit the Los Angeles Clippers.

With Durant back and Booker playing at an elite level, Phoenix looks poised to re-establish itself as a Western Conference powerhouse. For the Jazz, Clarkson’s return provides hope, but consistency and defensive improvements will be key moving forward.