To keep themselves in the hunt for the league’s inaugural in-season tournament’s knockout round, the Phoenix Suns defeated the Utah Jazz 131-128. 

Phoenix would have been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs had they lost in addition to the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Instead, Phoenix’s big performance was set up by Kevin Durant. In the final seconds of the game, Durant made it official with a long three-pointer. He had 38 points, 9 boards, and 9 assists in the game.

Criminal companion Along with his 24 points and 4 boards, Devin Booker had a game-high 15 assists. After suffering from many lower leg ailments during the season, he finally participated in back-to-back games. 

Due to Bradley Beal’s back injury, which will keep him out for three weeks, the Suns reverted to the small-ball group that beat the Minnesota Timberwolves last time out, starting Grayson Allen and Eric Gordon. 

With 6-to-12 shooting from downtown, the two shooters scored a total of 24-points. The Suns’ field goal percentage was an impressive 52.3%. By the end of the game, they had a 14-point lead. 

Ten points or more were scored by each of the Suns’ starters. As a substitute, Drew Eubanks contributed well, scoring 11 points on 5-for-5 shooting and grabbing 4-for-5 boards. 

Jordan Clarkson scored 37 points and dished out 5 assists to lead the Jazz. They cut the lead to one with forty seconds remaining. 

This next Sunday, the Suns will play Utah once more.