(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers faced off on Tuesday evening, a matchup that was a part of the In-Season Tournament.
While the Trail Blazers made it close at times, the Suns ended up coming away with the victory.
It is always nice to win, but for Devin Booker, this game featured an extra special reunion, the icing on the cake for a great evening.
Former Suns center Deandre Ayton was traded ahead of this season, and this game was an opportunity for the two players to link up.
Booker talked about what it was like to face his former teammate in a postgame interview.
According to Booker via reporter Gerald Bourguet: “He played extra hard tonight,” adding, “My challenge for him is to play like that every night.”
Devin Booker on facing Deandre Ayton: “It’s fun….He played extra hard tonight. I seen that, and my challenge for him is to play like that every night.” pic.twitter.com/hLVeSPV3hq
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) November 22, 2023
Ayton was a valued member of the Suns, but it seemed like he was not a part of their long-term goals and plans.
As Booker mentions, the Trail Blazers present a unique opportunity for Ayton to shine.
With Damian Lillard out the door, he can continue to grow and develop into a star, hoping to be the catalyst they need for success moving forward.
For the Suns, they can build their team their own way, even though Ayton might be missed by his old teammates.
Jusuf Nurkic has been an impressive player for the Suns this season, filling in nicely in Ayton’s absence.
He, Booker, and Kevin Durant have been the Suns’ three biggest pieces.
Will this trio make a significant splash within the Western Conference come playoff time?
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