Suns take off just before, after halftime in rout of Jazz

Kevin Durant dominated with 26 points and seven assists in just three quarters, propelling the Phoenix Suns to a commanding 126-104 victory over the Utah Jazz on Saturday night. This performance showcased Durant’s unrivaled skill and contribution to the team’s success.

Eric Gordon showcased his scoring prowess by netting all 21 of his points in the first half, leading the Suns to their 10th victory in the last 12 matchups against the Utah Jazz. Grayson Allen also had an outstanding quarter, scoring 14 of his 17 points, contributing to Phoenix’s dominant performance. The Suns have begun the season with two victories in their first three games, establishing themselves as a formidable force in the league.

Despite missing key players Devin Booker (ankle) and Bradley Beal (back), the Suns showcased their depth and resilience by building a massive 33-point lead. Their impressive shooting and strong defensive efforts allowed them to overcome the absence of these star players.

Lauri Markkanen’s impressive three-point shooting performance continued as he made five shots from beyond the arc, contributing 19 points to the Jazz’s effort. However, Utah struggled to find their rhythm and suffered their second loss in the first three games of the season.

Collin Sexton, Simone Fontecchio, and Keyonte George displayed solid performances for Utah, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Suns’ dominance. John Collins recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, highlighting the Jazz’s efforts in a challenging game where they were unable to find their offensive efficiency.

Phoenix’s Jordan Goodwin and Drew Eubanks both made significant contributions with 12 points each, while Jusuf Nurkic added 10 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. The Suns displayed impressive shooting percentages, scoring 52.9% from the field and 92.9% from the free-throw line.

The Suns built an early lead in the first half, with Eric Gordon’s exceptional shooting and Kevin Durant’s scoring abilities. They carried this momentum into the second half, extending their lead to 30 points with Grayson Allen’s dunk, ultimately securing a comfortable victory.

Entering the final quarter, the Suns remained in control, leading 106-78. Both teams made substitutions, allowing for an opportunity to showcase depth and provide valuable playing time to younger or less experienced players.

This victory for the Suns solidifies their position as a dominant force in the league, displaying their strength and depth in the absence of key players. With their impressive performance, they aim to continue their winning streak and maintain their status as a top team in the NBA.

—Field Level Media