The Phoenix Suns have been hit with a streak of bad luck early in the 2023-24 season, particularly when it comes to injuries. Star player Devin Booker has been dealing with various injuries that have caused him to miss several games. In his return to the court, Booker sustained a calf injury that has kept him sidelined once again. It hasn't just been Booker facing injury setbacks, as the team also had to wait for eight games before Bradley Beal made his debut due to a back injury.
Booker's latest injury setback is a strained right calf. Head coach Frank Vogel revealed that Booker underwent an MRI, which confirmed the injury ahead of the Suns' game against the Pistons on November 5th. The injury occurred on November 2nd when Booker played 35 minutes in a loss against the Spurs. This season has been plagued with injuries for Booker, who initially had a toe injury and subsequently missed three games after spraining his ankle on opening night. It's possible that the calf injury is related to Booker's conditioning as he was unable to fully participate in practices due to his prior injuries and may have overworked himself upon his return.
As for how long Booker will be out, there was optimism that he could return for the Suns' game against the Lakers on November 10th. However, he was ruled out for that game as well as their matchup against the Thunder on November 12th. Nevertheless, ahead of the Suns' game against the Timberwolves on November 15th, it was announced that Booker had been upgraded to probable, indicating that he is one step closer to getting back on the court with Beal and Kevin Durant for the first time in the regular season. Coach Vogel remarked that Booker is eager to return as quickly as possible, but the team will take a cautious approach due to the multiple injuries he has experienced in the first month of the season.
Despite only playing two games due to his injuries, Booker has been impressive, averaging 31.5 points and 10.5 assists. The Suns will certainly be hoping for his swift recovery as they navigate their upcoming schedule.
In terms of Booker's overall career stats, he has averaged 24.0 points, 4.8 assists, 4.0 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. He shoots at 46.1% from the field, 35.7% from beyond the arc, and 86.9% from the free-throw line.
Looking ahead, the Suns have a busy schedule ahead of them. They will be facing the Timberwolves on November 15th, followed by back-to-back games against the Jazz on November 17th and 19th. They will then go up against the Trail Blazers on November 21st and the Warriors on November 22nd.
Despite the challenges they have faced with injuries, the Phoenix Suns will be hoping to bounce back and find success as they continue to navigate through the 2023-24 season.
