The Portland Trail Blazers are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Phoenix Suns, aiming to build on their recent 127-108 victory.
THIS TEAM ❤️ pic.twitter.com/pSzROaP3by
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) February 2, 2025
Sitting at 13th in the Western Conference with a 20-29 record, Portland has faced challenges this season, but the win over Phoenix was a promising sign of what they can accomplish when their offense clicks.
This will be the second back-to-back game between these two teams, and the Blazers will need all hands on deck to take down the Suns again.
In the previous outing, Deandre Ayton led Portland with 24 points, while Jerami Grant added 20.
Several other Blazers contributed to the balanced scoring effort, including Toumani Camara (18), Anfernee Simons (16), Shaedon Sharpe (16), and Scoot Henderson (13). The offense was spread out nicely, with multiple players stepping up in key moments.
However, despite the Blazers' offensive success, Phoenix's Devin Booker dominated, scoring 37 points, and Kevin Durant chipped in 22. The Suns currently sit in 8th place with a 25-23 record, making this a tough test for Portland, and the Blazers will need to improve defensively to pull off a two game sweep.
For Portland to secure another win, they will need to stay sharp on both ends of the floor. One area where the Blazers could significantly benefit is with the potential return of Robert Williams III, who has been sidelined due to right-hand soreness.
INJURY REPORT 2/3 vs. PHX:
— Trail Blazers PR (@TrailBlazersPR) February 3, 2025
OUT
Matisse Thybulle (R Ankle Sprain)
QUESTIONABLE
Duop Reath (G League - On Assignment)
Rayan Rupert (G League - On Assignment)
Jabari Walker (G League - On Assignment)
Robert Williams III (R Hand Soreness)
Williams, who has missed the past three games, is listed as questionable for Monday’s matchup. If he suits up, his presence could be a game-changer for Portland, especially in terms of defense and rebounding.
Williams has been averaging 5.8 points and 5.7 rebounds this season, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet. As a dynamic shot blocker and rim protector, his presence would help shore up Portland's defense, especially against Phoenix's potent frontcourt, which includes Ayton.
With the Blazers struggling defensively at times this season, Williams’ ability to protect the paint and disrupt opposing offenses could be exactly what they need to challenge the Suns’ high-scoring duo of Booker and Durant.
Additionally, Williams’ rebounding ability would provide Portland with more second-chance opportunities, giving their offense more possessions to capitalize on. His return, along with the continued strong play of Ayton and Grant, could be the boost the Blazers need to win two straight against a tough Phoenix squad.
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For more Blazers news, visit Portland Trail Blazers on SI
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