The Phoenix Suns extended their winning streak in the NBA regular season to four with a 109-105 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, powered by a strong performance from Bradley Beal, who earned high praise from teammate Devin Booker postgame.
While Beal’s stat line against the Blazers wasn’t flashy, his defensive impact was significant, particularly in his efforts guarding Anfernee Simons. Beal finished with 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, and Booker acknowledged just how vital he is to the Suns‘ lineup.
“Brad is the heart of this team,” Booker said. “To have him out there, have his energy out there, it’s always needed. It’s a different dynamic when he’s out on the court with this group. It’s just good to see him out there. I’ve seen him grab it (right elbow) after that last free throw, so maybe it’s still bothering him. But it was great to get him back.”
Beal returned to action after missing games due to a right elbow injury, which sidelined him for the Suns’ wins over the Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas Mavericks. Rookie Ryan Dunn filled in for Beal during those games and made the most of his opportunity.
Devin Booker #1, Bradley Beal #3 and Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns walk on the court during the first half of the NBA game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Suns HC highlights Beal’s defensive effort
Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer emphasized Beal’s defensive contributions, noting his assignment to guard Anfernee Simons. Beal’s work kept Simons to just 20 points on 8-for-25 shooting from the field.
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“He got the tough assignment with (Anfernee) Simons… the ball is in Simons’ hands so much,” Budenholzer said. “I thought he gave us a lot there. The last defensive board was a big-time rebound, and he got us some buckets. I think to miss a couple of games and come back, I’m pretty happy with Brad.”
Grayson Allen echoes Booker’s praise
Grayson Allen also praised Beal’s effort, noting the less visible aspects of his game that can go unnoticed on the stat sheet. “Brad does a ton of the little things,” Allen said. “Even if it was their last possession or second-to-last possession, doing a huge rebound, boxing out DA (Deandre Ayton) and jumping up a lot of times, knowing that he’s our point of attack.”
“He takes on the challenge, and he’s really good guarding the ball,” Allen continued. “He makes extra plays, he hustles, he’s driving. I know he’s had this reputation for his whole career, this reputation of being a 30-point scorer.”
