Suns Rally Without Stars: Bench Powers Dramatic Win

The Phoenix Suns secured a critical 113-110 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night, demonstrating resilience despite the absence of star players Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, and Jordan Goodwin. The team's energy and hustle, which had been lacking in recent games, resurfaced, enabling them to overcome offensive struggles that had led to seven losses in their previous ten contests.

Down by 12 points in the third quarter, the Suns' bench players ignited a pivotal 20-5 run. Contributions from players like Grayson Allen, who scored 28 points, and Collin Gillespie, who added 21 points, were instrumental. Allen's performance included three three-pointers in 90 seconds, and Gillespie's playmaking was crucial. The team's collective effort, including key plays from Royce O'Neale and defensive contributions from others, allowed them to reclaim their identity and secure a much-needed win.

In the final seconds, after LeBron James tied the game, coach Jordan Ott orchestrated a final play. Grayson Allen drove to the basket and dished to Gillespie, who then found Royce O'Neale open for the game-winning three-pointer. This victory, considered one of the Suns' biggest given the circumstances, pulled them within a game of the Lakers for sixth place in the Western Conference.