The Suns have been without Devin Booker over the last four games as he has been dealing with a hip strain suffered in the team’s 121–94 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on February 19. However, the latest update indicates that his return to action could come soon.

According to John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Phoenix, the 29-year-old guard is expected to return during the first week of March. Booker could be available either for Tuesday’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings or Thursday’s game against the Chicago Bulls.

“Devin Booker is progressing well from a hip strain and trending towards being back after this four-day break, likely either Sacramento on Tuesday or Chicago on Thursday.”

The Suns fighting to remain in contention

That represents encouraging news for a Suns team firmly competing in the Western Conference playoff race. Phoenix holds the No. 7 seed with a 34–26 record as of Friday, February 27, and Booker’s return should provide an important boost entering the final stretch of the regular NBA season.

The 11-year veteran has remained the face of the franchise throughout the season. Although many expected the Suns to struggle, they have stayed competitive, particularly when Devin Booker has been available on the court. Booker is averaging 24.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game while shooting 45.5% from the field and 30.8% from beyond the three-point line.

After defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 113–110 on Thursday, the Suns do not play again until Tuesday’s matchup against the Kings. Phoenix receives three consecutive days of rest, giving Booker and his teammates valuable time to recover and prepare for Sacramento.

Booker spoke with azcentral’s Duane Rankin about the challenge the Thunder presented and what the matchup meant for the Suns moving forward. He expressed confidence in his group while acknowledging the high level of play Oklahoma City brought into the tournament.

“It’s going to be a great test for us. They have it rolling. They’re playing some of the best basketball the NBA has ever seen. I’m excited to match up against that. Another Cup game. We’re looking forward to that. We’ll see them Friday,” Booker said.

Phoenix entered the week with a chance to clinch the West Group A title with a win over the Thunder. Even in defeat, the Suns still had a path to the NBA Cup quarterfinals through the wild-card spot, which would depend on achieving a better point differential than the winner of the Memphis Grizzlies–Los Angeles Clippers matchup. The stakes were clear, and every possession carried weight.

How the Suns entered the matchup

Phoenix continued to exceed early expectations after its offseason overhaul, improving to 12–7 with a 112–100 NBA Cup win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. The Suns entered the Friday game with a strong +35 point differential in Cup play, a number that trailed only Oklahoma City’s dominant +71 mark in West Group A. The group standings remained tight, but Phoenix stayed well-positioned.

Booker led the way through the first quarter of the season, averaging 26 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.3 rebounds while shooting 45.7 percent from the field and 32.4 percent from beyond the arc across 19 appearances. His consistency stabilized a roster still adjusting to significant changes in personnel and coaching. His role continued to be central as the Suns searched for rhythm and continuity.

The Suns’ growth extended beyond individual performances, as the team displayed improved chemistry and resilience in competitive moments. Their ability to close games and maintain composure reflected a group gaining confidence with each outing. The matchup with the Thunder represented a chance to validate that progress on a national stage.

Friday’s game carried both competitive and historical significance, as the Suns aimed to hand the defending champions their second loss of the season. The opportunity to stay alive in the NBA Cup motivated Phoenix, which viewed the tournament as a meaningful chance to secure early-season momentum. A win would have locked in their spot in the quarterfinals, while a loss would have shifted focus to point differential and the results elsewhere.

The roster has seen notable additions, such as Jalen Green, but with the departure of Kevin Durant, Booker assumes the mantle of leadership. The team is determined to secure an NBA title for its fans, who have long awaited this achievement in the Suns’ franchise history.

Booker was recently questioned about the level of performance expected from the team this season. He issued a bold statement to the rest of the NBA, emphasizing the readiness of the roster and the focused mindset he and his teammates are adopting as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

“This past summer felt too long without being in the playoffs. I’m eager to get back to it. I’m excited,” Booker expressed to the media, speaking ahead of the preseason game on Friday against the Brooklyn Nets.

Booker embraces leadership role ahead of NBA season

Bearing the significant responsibility of being the cornerstone for a team brimming with talent, Booker recently addressed his pivotal role for the Phoenix Suns in the upcoming NBA season. He made it clear that he is fully committed to steering the team amidst the backdrop of substantial changes.

“Obviously, we’ve had some changes with the roster. We’ve had some changes with the coaches. So, I think it’s a big responsibility for me to be a leader and continue being a leader and getting everybody on the same page so we can start this thing off the right way,” Booker stated, demonstrating his awareness of the heightened expectations placed upon him.

With the promising outlook for the Suns this season, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation among the fan base, fueled in part by strategic new acquisitions. Notably, two elite talents from the Houston Rockets, Dillon Brooks and Green, have joined the roster, amping up the excitement for what’s to come.

Booker isn’t shying away from the pressure in Phoenix. Fresh off signing a two-year, $145 million extension, the Suns guard emphasized that he has “unfinished business” with the franchise, noting that it’s his responsibility as the face of the team to lead them to the next level.

“I have unfinished business here,” Booker told The Athletic. “I know how much it would mean to this city and this organization. That’s my job as a leader. It’s my responsibility as a franchise player. I understand how much my voice amongst the younger team that we have now matters, so it’s my job to handle that.”

Despite the ups and downs, Booker’s loyalty has remained firm. In an era where superstars often leave at the first sign of struggle, he has resisted calls to move on from Phoenix. The Suns have gone through multiple iterations of star teammates — from Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton to Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal — yet nothing has materialized into a championship. Booker admitted those years were some of the most difficult stretches of his career, but he hasn’t wavered in his commitment.

What Devin Booker will have to handle

With no Kevin Durant or another proven All-Star alongside him, the Suns’ current roster looks far different from the one they had in past years. Still, Booker has chosen to stay the course. With career averages of 24.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, he has the skill set to take full control of his career, but instead, he’s determined to carry Phoenix forward — the team that drafted him back in 2015.

Now, at 28 years old, Booker is entering his prime. The question remains whether that will be enough for Phoenix to contend in a competitive Western Conference. Fans outside the franchise are skeptical, but internally, there is confidence that the Suns can put together a playoff run. Supporting players such as Jalen Green, Mark Williams, and Dillon Brooks are expected to play key roles.

Booker’s loyalty has not gone unnoticed. He could have walked away from the Suns long ago, but instead, he’s doubled down on his commitment to the NBA franchise. His determination reflects his desire to leave a lasting legacy in Phoenix, something that could resonate for years to come.

The journey won’t be easy. The Western Conference is loaded with talent, and the Suns face an uphill battle. But if Booker’s leadership and loyalty can help establish the kind of winning culture he envisions, Phoenix may finally reward him with the championship he has been chasing since the day he put on their jersey.

Following an unstable season, General Manager Rob Pelinka has decided to revamp Lakers’ roster. Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton are at the spearhead of the reinforces of the team, looking to chase the championship. Nonetheless, JJ Redick has made a harsh decision towards today’s game, focusing on keep his players ready for the start of the season.

In a recent interview, JJ Redick has decided to discard LeBron James for today’s showdown as he presented a nerve irritation in his glute before training camp. The head coach has stated that the team will be taking a cautious approach with the veteran, as they look to keep him at full shape during the upcoming season. Unlike the 40-year-old star, Luka Doncic will take on field for Lakers offense, but he will have some minutes restrictions as he comes off the 2025 EuroBasket.

As the Phoenix Suns gear up for their first preseason clash, Devin Booker stands ready to ignite their offense. Having sidestepped injuries, the 28-year-old star is poised to spearhead the team’s attack. With him in top form, head coach Jordan Ott aims to make a bold statement in the opening games, setting the stage for a strong start to the 2025-26 NBA season.

Lakers and Suns will face some other key absentees ahead of their NBA preseason game

Not only will LeBron James be absent from the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the Phoenix Suns, but JJ Redick reports that rookie Adou Thiero will also sit out due to a knee injury. Marcus Smart is focusing on regaining his conditioning, and Maxi Kleber is sidelined with a tweaked quad. These key absences might force the Lakers to reconsider their rotations in today’s crucial matchup.

Although Devin Booker is set to play in the Phoenix Suns’ first preseason game, head coach Jordan Ott revealed that Jalen Green and Mark Williams will miss out due to injuries. Green is sidelined with a “low-grade” hamstring strain, and Williams is dealing with a foot injury. Despite their current setbacks, both players are expected to be ready for the season opener, bringing potential strength to the team’s official lineup.

There have been numerous game-winning shots along the way, and Booker appears to have a clear favorite. At a recent Suns Fan Fest, he was asked to choose between two standout game-winners.

“Yeah, I like the bubble one. But there were no fans in there, so the reaction is whatever,” Booker said, referring to the August 2020 shot against the Los Angeles Clippers, while speaking with the event host, who highlighted his role as the team leader in what will be his 11th NBA season, per Duane Rankin of AZ Central.

The four-time All-Star’s fading jumper over the Clippers in the bubble is widely considered one of the toughest and most important game-winners of his career.

The shot he considers his true best

However, Booker noted that because there were no fans in attendance due to COVID-19, he considers another game-winner even more special: a three-pointer against the New York Knicks.

“I will say in The Garden. Game-winner vs New York,” he said, recalling his November 2023 clutch shot. He nailed a three-pointer over a double-team with 1.7 seconds left, securing a 116-113 win at Madison Square Garden.

Both shots were remarkable in difficulty, with Booker facing multiple defenders on each play. While he acknowledged the Clippers shot was more challenging due to his off-balance positioning, the Knicks game-winner remains his favorite because of the energy and moment at MSG in the NBA.

With an NBA Finals appearance in 2021, Booker has yet to return to the big stage. The Suns have gone through major changes since that season, losing Cam Payne, Chris Paul, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, among others.

Booker has stayed with the team through thick and thin, as he continues to strive for a championship. The Suns could have selected a different player with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft if it weren’t for John Calipari.

The 66-year-old coach took Booker under his wing when he played for the Kentucky Wildcats, but his usage apparently “ruined” Booker’s draft stock.

John Calipari credited for Suns drafting Devin Booker

Luke Duffey of Valley of the Suns notes that Devin Booker, a potential franchise GOAT over Charles Barkley or Steve Nash, continues to build his legacy. Duffey notes that Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon recently redrafted the 2015 draft class, which led to a major revelation about Calipari’s role in Booker’s selection.

Vecenie explained that Booker “didn’t play a lot” after Calipari decided to limit his minutes to 21.5 per game. He played 38 contests, but didn’t start in a single one of them.

Booker averaged 10.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game, shooting 47% from the field, 41.1% from deep and 82.8% from the free-throw line.

Players such as Jahlil Okafor, Mario Hezonja, Willie Cauley-Stein and Stanley Johnson were selected ahead of Booker, but the Suns are grateful that things transpired that way.

Ahead of his first training camp with Stephen Curry and the Warriors, Butler was asked by a YouTuber who would win a game to 11 between him and Suns guard Devin Booker. Butler didn’t hesitate, delivering a surprisingly one-sided prediction during a Twitch stream with Brandon Awadis.

“Devin Booker. 11-0,” Butler said, giving full credit to Booker’s offensive arsenal. His answer underscored the high regard he has for Booker’s scoring ability, agility, and shot-creating potential—qualities that have made the Suns guard one of the NBA’s most potent weapons.

Booker averaged 25.6 points on 46.1% shooting last season, along with a career-high 7.1 assists and 0.9 steals per game. Even so, Butler’s blowout prediction raised eyebrows. While Butler may no longer be selected to All-Defensive Teams—having earned the honor five times between 2014 and 2021—the 35-year-old forward still carries a strong defensive reputation and remains a threat on both ends of the floor.

Butler contributed solid numbers in his first season with Golden State, averaging 17.9 points on 47.6% shooting to go along with 5.9 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals across 30 games. Following the trade from the Miami Heat, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra assured Steve Kerr that Butler would thrive in Golden State’s system—and so far, he has.

That context makes Butler’s prediction all the more surprising. Known for his defensive tenacity and ability to attack the paint, Butler has rarely conceded that anyone could dominate him so decisively in a head-to-head setting.

Warriors All-Star Stephen Curry, meanwhile, remains optimistic about what the trio of himself, Butler, and Draymond Green can accomplish this season. Their momentum was derailed last year after Curry suffered a left hamstring injury, but he believes the group can bounce back strong in 2025–26.

“I know I got hurt. But you just want to build off that for another year to build chemistry with Jimmy. You know Draymond will do his thing,” Curry told NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole. “Hopefully, some of our young guys are able to take another step. That’s an every-year process.”

“I want you to think about what Devin Booker got here. He essentially agreed to a one-year extension. He agreed to giving the Suns one more year because he got a player option in the deal, which I would not have thought was a guarantee, and he promised the Suns one additional season and guaranteed himself $140-something million,” Brian Windhorst reported, via Hoop Collective podcast.

Devin Booker has established himself as a vital player for the Phoenix Suns, consistently averaging over 20 points per game for nine consecutive seasons. Despite these impressive individual performances, he has not yet guided the franchise to an NBA championship. This situation has prompted a former NBA Coach of the Year to question the fairness of Booker’s recent lucrative contract extension, suggesting it may be an excessive investment absent a title victory.

The Phoenix Suns have set a new benchmark with their latest contract extension, setting the record for the highest annual salary in NBA history, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. While this move is a significant investment for the franchise, Devin Booker stands as the cornerstone around which they are eager to build.

Moreover, Suns’ general manager Brian Gregory is focusing on enhancing the roster by pursuing Jonathan Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors. This strategy reflects their intent not only to secure immediate wins but also to invest in young talent capable of leading the franchise alongside Devin Booker. This approach is particularly relevant following the departures of veterans Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

The spotlight will be on head coach Jordan Ott as he leads the team through a pivotal rebuilding phase. While the roster’s offensive capabilities are secure, he faces the immediate challenge of balancing creative play with defensive solidity. Owner Mat Ishbia underscores that a central element of Ott’s mandate is the development of young talent, ensuring the team strengthens its foundation for long-term success.

“You start giving out money, For what? What did we achieve? What did we do? You’re giving me this money cos I’m the best player on our team, and you think it’s gonna make me happy. It’s a sugar high. What about winning? This team, to me, has been mismanaged,” Sam Mitchell said, via SiriusXM NBA radio.

Sam Mitchell’s argument has ignited a fierce debate among fans, splitting opinions across the spectrum. Some supporters back his stance, claiming the renewal appears unjustified, especially after the team failed to clinch a spot in the 2025 NBA playoffs despite having a superstar like Kevin Durant on the roster.

On the flip side, many fans believe that delaying Booker’s renewal risks losing the team’s leading scorer, who posted an impressive 2024-25 season with averages of 25.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game. This decision bears significant weight for the future competitiveness of a team that is already experiencing a decline.

Jalen Green makes surprising confession about Devin Booker setting a new tone in Phoenix

Despite having arrived relatively recently at the Phoenix Suns, Jalen Green already claimed to have spoken with Devin Booker. After that, he made a confession about how they feel heading into the 2025-26 season. “He’s (Booker) excited. He’s ready to do what we gotta do, he understands the situation we’re in right now. People don’t expect us to do anything. People don’t expect us to come out of the West at all,” he said, via Phoenix Suns’ X account.

Moreover, Jalen highlighted the similarities between the Suns’ modest expectations for the upcoming season and those of last year’s Houston Rockets. In doing so, he underscored his proven ability to transform a team’s fortunes, signaling his potential to deliver similar success in Phoenix. If Green and Booker develop a strong on-court chemistry, their combined scoring prowess could establish the Suns as formidable contenders in the league.

“$70 million a year… to dribble a ***** basketball,” Barkley began in classic fashion. But he also added, “God bless these guys,” recalling a time in his own career when he was making more than legends like Dr. J (Julius Erving) and Bill Russell.

To Barkley, players like Booker should be smiling all the time with paychecks like that. “…but these guys? They should be in a good mood 24/7.” With the extension, Booker now holds the highest salary among all Suns players.

What was Barkley’s highest salary as a player?

According to Spotrac, his final NBA paycheck was the largest of his playing career—$9 million for one season with the Houston Rockets in 1999. Just a year earlier, he had made only $1 million. His biggest contract overall was a five-year deal worth $18.98 million.

Had Barkley played deeper into the 21st century, he likely would’ve earned far more. But by the 1999 season, he was already 36 years old and in one of his final three seasons—well past his MVP-contending days.

Barkley does just fine as a broadcaster

Despite his remarks about the sky-high salaries of today’s NBA stars, Barkley reportedly earns $21 million per year as an analyst. Yahoo! Sports and Front Office Sports noted that his 10-year, $210 million contract with TNT was signed in 2022.