By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
A massive offensive outing powered by red-hot Devin Booker propelled the Phoenix Suns to the win, 128-101, against the Oklahoma City Thunder, on Monday in Orlando.
Booker even connected from midcourt in the third quarter en route for the game-high 35 points. His side improved to a 6-0 bubble tally and 32-39 overall. The Suns are among the four teams hunting for a spot in the Western Conference play-in to determine the eighth and final playoffs spot.
Teammate Deandre Ayton was nearly forced out after missing his mandatory coronavirus test on Sunday. He was retested and cleared just in time for him to produce ten points and six rebounds off the bench.
On to the European contribution, Dario Saric threw in 16 points, nine rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. Fellow starter, Ricky Rubio added seven points, nine assists, and one steal through foul trouble.
The Thunder, already clinched for the playoffs starting next week, fell to 3-3 in the bubble and 43-27 overall. Danilo Gallinari due to left ankle injury was among players precautionary sidelined, a list including off-site Dennis Schroder.
Remaining seeding games for the Suns bring on the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday and the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday. The Thunder will face the Miami Heat on Wednesday and the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday before heading to the playoffs.
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