The Phoenix Suns (29-33) erased a 19-point fourth-quarter gap and took down the Los Angeles Clippers (32-29) for the fourth time this season with a thrilling 119-117 victory on March 5.
Phoenix Suns Top Performers:
Kevin Durant 34 PTS | 7 REB | 2 BLK | 55.4 FPS
Durant exploded for 19 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Suns to the win. He has now scored 26 or more points in four of his last five games, shooting efficiently from both the field and three. He also went a perfect 10-for-10 at the line today, though his production in that area has been up-and-down. Beyond scoring, he continues to make an impact in other categories, including outstanding defensive contributions. The Suns will need him to maintain this level of play if they hope to secure a postseason spot.
Nick Richards 16 PTS | 8-10 FG | 7 REB | 24.4 FPS
Richards’ inconsistency is a significant concern, though he’s starting to find a rhythm, delivering strong rebounding and scoring numbers in recent games. He has also consistently recorded a block during a recent five-game stretch. With the team struggling to establish a stable presence in the frontcourt, he will remain a steady part of the rotation.
Grayson Allen 8 PTS | 2 AST | 2 STL | 20.6 FPS
Allen has seen limited minutes lately and hasn’t been able to make much of an impact on offense. However, his defensive presence has been evident, recording 2 stocks in each of his last two games.
Royce O’Neale 12 PTS | 3 REB | 3 AST | 20.1 FPS
O’Neale’s role and production have been inconsistent lately, but when given big minutes, he’s capable of providing solid value in scoring and three-pointers.
Collin Gillespie 10 PTS | 2 REB | 3 AST | 16.9 FPS
Gillespie has yet to secure a consistent role with the team, but he logged decent minutes for the third time since last month and has consistently contributed in scoring and playmaking. He stepped up in the fourth quarter today, delivering all of his production when it mattered most and helping keep the team’s playoff hopes alive. His performance could earn him more minutes, but it’s best to monitor him for now.
Los Angeles Clippers Top Performers:
Ivica Zubac 35 PTS | 15-19 FG | 10 REB | 57.5 FPS
Big Zu was nearly unstoppable in this game and notched a career-high in points. He’s been highly efficient since last month, with only one game where he failed to reach double figures. He’s also very steady on the defensive end, consistently delivering strong rebounding and defensive value.
James Harden 21 PTS | 6 REB | 15 AST | 55.7 FPS
Harden’s efficiency has never been his strong suit, but he’s had just one subpar scoring performance in recent games. Despite the shooting struggles, he remains an elite presence in assists and steals and has also cut down his turnovers in his last two outings.
Kawhi Leonard 21 PTS | 4 REB | 3 AST | 34.3 FPS
Leonard has scored 20+ points in five of his last six games and has been delivering solid production across all shooting areas, though he struggled from three today. He’s also contributing well in rebounds, assists, and steals. However, he is still recovering from his knee injury and is set to miss tomorrow’s game.
Amir Coffey 13 PTS | 2 REB | 2 STL | 21.4 FPS
Coffey has snapped out of his slump, scoring in double digits in seven of his last ten games. His usage remains low, but he’s been surprisingly productive at the free-throw line and continues to play a key role for the team.
Bogdan Bogdanovic 13 PTS | 4 REB | 3 AST | 21.3 FPS
Bogdanovic should remain in the starting role for at least five more games with Powell sidelined. He’s been a reliable scorer since joining the team, putting up double-digit points in six of his last seven games. He’s also a strong shooter and has also contributed in assists, though consistency remains an issue.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Devin Booker 17 PTS | 4-8 FT | 5 TO
Booker nearly averaged 30 points and 10 assists over a recent four-game stretch but has struggled since, failing to reach 20 points in each of his last three games while seeing a drop in overall production. Foul trouble and turnovers have become major concerns during this slump.
