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[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns ended their two-game skid with a commanding 122-106 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, improving to 31-36 on the season.
Despite the victory, they remain 3.5 games behind the Dallas Mavericks (33-35) for the 10th seed in the Western Conference—the final play-in spot—as they push for a late-season playoff berth.
Devin Booker led the way with a stellar double-double, posting 22 points, 13 assists, four rebounds, and a steal.
According to StatsMuse, the Suns are 5-1 when Booker records 10 or more assists, underscoring his effectiveness as a playmaker. This season, he is averaging 25.8 points, 6.9 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and a steal per game while shooting 45.7% from the field and 34.7% from deep across 61 games.
Phoenix will aim to carry that momentum into Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers (40-25), who enter on a four-game losing streak. The Suns currently lead the season series 2-1, including a dominant 127-100 win over the Lakers in November.
However, Los Angeles has significantly reshaped its roster since their last meeting, adding Luka Doncic and Dorian Finney-Smith in a major midseason move. With LeBron James sidelined due to a groin strain, the Lakers are missing a key playmaker in their rotation.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks, who hold the final play-in spot, face mounting challenges due to injuries. Dante Exum recently fractured his left hand, leaving Dallas with just eight active players.
The situation could worsen as two-way players Brandon Williams and Kessler Edwards approach their 50-game limit, potentially reducing Dallas’ roster to just six available players. If the Mavericks cannot meet the league’s minimum roster requirements, they could be forced to forfeit games, further jeopardizing their postseason hopes.
With Booker thriving as a facilitator, the Suns have a clear path to capitalize on Dallas’ struggles. If his passing continues to fuel victories, Phoenix could make a late push for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference.