The Phoenix Suns have revealed their starting lineup ahead of their in-season tournament debut against the Los Angeles Lakers:
Grayson Allen
Bradley Beal
Keita Bates-Diop
Kevin Durant
Jusuf Nurkic
This is the same lineup that saw the Suns squeak out a narrow overtime win against the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday.
Phoenix is still without the talents of Devin Booker (calf strain) and Damion Lee (meniscus surgery), though NBA insider Shams Charania recently reported Booker could make his debut during Phoenix’s three-game homestand, which extends to Sunday vs Oklahoma City and Wednesday vs Minnesota.
After suffering a jaw contusion, backup point guard Jordan Goodwin will be available tonight.
Allen figures to be a key part in Phoenix’s backcourt after scoring 26 points for Phoenix in their last outing, which led the team. His eight three-pointers made established a new career high.
Bates-Diop continues to hold the fifth starter spot over Josh Okogie. The two have swapped out of the lineup during the opening portion of the season.
Beal made his regular season debut after missing the first seven games due to lower back problems. In 24 minutes, Beal tallied 13 points, four rebounds, four assists and two blocks. He was listed as probable heading into tonight.
Whether he will be on a minutes restriction tonight will be entirely up to Suns head coach Frank Vogel, as it will be interesting to see how top teams such as Phoenix and LA navigate the first ever in-season tournament.
Opening tip is slated for just past 8:00 PM Arizona Time.