The Phoenix Suns list shooting guard Devin Booker as questionable for Thursday’s matchup against the Detroit Pistons. If he sits, Phoenix loses its primary scorer for a critical stretch that could affect its playoff positioning in the tightly contested Western Conference. The decision will force immediate lineup changes and test the team’s depth.
Current Status of Devin Booker
Official NBA reports list Booker as “questionable,” indicating the medical staff expects a limited or monitored workload rather than a full absence. The exact issue has not been disclosed, but the designation suggests a lingering problem that could keep him out or restrict his minutes against Detroit.
How the Suns Are Adjusting Without Their Star
Offensive Shifts
When Booker is unavailable, head coach Monty Williams typically moves from a pace‑and‑space scheme to a more half‑court, post‑centric approach. This change emphasizes interior scoring and ball movement to compensate for the missing perimeter threat.
Key Players Stepping Up
- Mikal Bridges – expected to take the lead scoring role, providing perimeter shooting and defensive versatility.
- Kevin Durant – continues to serve as a secondary scorer, especially in mid‑range and clutch moments.
- Deandre Ayton – will anchor the paint, creating second‑chance opportunities and drawing defensive attention.
- Jamal Crawford – likely to see increased ball‑handling duties, facilitating the offense in Booker’s absence.
Broader Injury Landscape
Booker’s uncertainty adds to a growing list of Suns injuries that have forced lineup experimentation throughout the season.
- Chris Paul – out with a lower‑body strain, missing his veteran leadership and playmaking.
- Jae Crowder – sidelined by an ankle issue, reducing front‑court depth.
- Jalen Smith and Josh Okogie – receiving expanded minutes to fill gaps caused by the injuries.
What This Means for Phoenix’s Playoff Push
The Suns sit at 35‑27, a record that keeps them in the playoff hunt but leaves little margin for error. Missing Booker for even one game could swing the win‑percentage needed to stay ahead of rivals such as the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves. The situation also intensifies discussions about roster depth and potential mid‑season acquisitions.
Upcoming Schedule and Stakes
The Thursday game against Detroit, set for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip‑off, serves as an early test of the team’s resilience. A win without Booker would demonstrate depth and boost morale ahead of a back‑to‑back road clash with the Denver Nuggets on Friday, a matchup that could further define the Suns’ postseason trajectory.