Live Suns vs Rockets Updates With Kevin Durant and Key Players Missing

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Live Suns vs Rockets Updates With Kevin Durant and Key Players Missing

The Phoenix Suns are gearing up for a critical matchup against the Houston Rockets on November 24, 2023. The game will take place at the Mortgage Matchup Center, starting at 7:30 p.m. Fans can stream the action live on Peacock.

Player Updates and Injury Reports

Several key players will be absent for both teams due to injuries and personal reasons. The Suns will miss:

Mark Williams (Right knee injury management)
Jalen Green (Right hamstring strain)
Grayson Allen (Right quad contusion)
Ryan Dunn (Right wrist sprain)

However, rookie forward Rasheer Fleming has been upgraded to available after suffering a left ankle sprain on November 18.

The Houston Rockets (10-4) will also begin their four-game road trip without star player Kevin Durant, who is out for personal reasons. This marks a significant loss for the Rockets, especially after trading for him earlier this season. Other absentees include:

Tari Eason (Right oblique strain)
Jae’Sean Tate (Personal reasons)

On a positive note, Steven Adams has been cleared for participation after being previously listed as questionable due to right ankle tendinopathy.

Changing Lineups

This game will see the Suns adopt their 10th different starting lineup. Nick Richards will replace Mark Williams, who is sitting out his second consecutive game. The expected starting five for the Suns includes:

Devin Booker
Jordan Goodwin
Dillon Brooks
Royce O’Neale
Nick Richards

In contrast, the Rockets will start Reed Sheppard, Josh Okogie, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith, and Alperen Sengun. Okogie is a familiar name, having played for the Suns from 2022 to 2025.

Motivation and Key Matchups

Rockets head coach Ime Udoka has expressed admiration for Dillon Brooks, who has returned to Houston after the Kevin Durant trade. Udoka noted the passion Brooks brings to the team and expects him to be highly motivated against his former squad.

“He’s going to bring that edge regardless on a nightly basis,” Udoka said, highlighting Brooks’ ability to perform at a high level, particularly with several key players missing for the Rockets.

This matchup against the Suns presents significant implications for both teams as they navigate injuries and strategize for the game ahead. Fans are eager to see how these developments will play out in what promises to be an exciting contest.