In a recent face-off within the In-Season Tournament, the Phoenix Suns matched with the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite the Los Angeles Lakers dominating group play, the matchup came with an intriguing narrative. The game marked the first-ever game between former teammates, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant against Deandre Ayton. However, the combined efforts of Booker’s 28 points and Durant’s 31 proved insufficient against the Blazers.

Contrastingly, Deandre Ayton entered the game with a clear sense of purpose. From the get-go, Ayton made his presence felt. He launched 10 shots in the opening quarter alone. However, despite Ayton’s efforts, the Suns managed a solid 31-point quarter; establishing an early 13-point lead.

Devin Booker pushes Ayton with a season-long challenge

Despite the Phoenix Suns securing a victory, there were moments when the Portland Trail Blazers showcased promising sights; particularly through the former Suns center, Deandre Ayton. The center delivered one of his most impressive displays against his former teammates. Taking note of Ayton’s remarkable effort, Devin Booker not only praised the ex-Suns player but also threw down a challenge. While acknowledging Ayton’s performance, Booker challenged him to bring consistently the same level of effort and efficiency in every game.

Early on, Ayton skillfully exploited every gap left by the Suns’ defense. By the first buzzer, he had already notched up 12 points. However, his surge was short-lived as Ayton finally tallied 18 points. However, it was an efficient performance by the former Suns’ player as he went 9-14 from the floor.

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“Booker Is either a James Harden or Kyrie”: Kevin Durant-Led Suns Gives ‘Brooklyn All Over Again’ Vibes to Ex-King

Next up, Golden State Warriors

As the Suns effortlessly sailed past Ayton and the Blazers, their upcoming challenge looms in the form of the Golden State Warriors. However, this won’t be just another run-of-the-mill game, at least according to Kevin Durant. During a recent interview, KD was asked about Chris Paul and Ayton, and while the Slim Reaper expressed good wishes for his former teammates in their overall endeavors, he made it clear that he didn’t extend the same wishes for them when facing the Suns.

In the next matchup, the Suns are set to face off against the Warriors in their regular-season game. Although the Suns haven’t fully regained their health, they did manage to outscore the Warriors earlier in the season. However, this time, both teams will enter the game with substantial blows to their roster.

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The Suns are grappling with multiple injured players, including their star addition Bradley Beal. On the other hand, the Warriors will be without their floor general Draymond Green due to an ongoing suspension.