Following Bradley Beal’s sprained ankle in Friday’s defeat to the New York Knicks, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Frank Vogel all remarked about the Suns’ injury woes this season.
The Big Three have only played 24 minutes together this season, and the Suns have used 12 different starting lineups in 25 games.
With 7:28 remaining in the first quarter, Beal departed the game with a right ankle injury after making a three-pointer and falling on the foot of New York player Donte DiVincenzo, who was punished for a flagrant 1 for not allowing Beal enough space to land.
Beal made the egregious free shot before leaving the game and never returned. He had six points on 2-of-2 shooting from the field.
Vogel told reporters after the game that Beal’s X-rays were negative.
“Injuries are a part of the game,” stated Vogel. “I’m sorry for him; he’s worked very hard.” You can feel his disappointment on his face, therefore keeping him lifted is my main priority. He’ll be back soon enough, but it’s been a trying season for him due to injuries. And what about us? Injuries are unavoidable in sports. You can’t get involved in that and then walk on.”
Durant, Booker, and Beal have only played together once this season, during a loss at home against Brooklyn on Wednesday night.
Beal has appeared in just six of the Suns’ 25 games this season due to a strained back that has kept him out for the majority of the season. After missing 22 of the first 25 games, this was only his third game back.
This season, Beal is averaging 14.7 points in 25.2 minutes per game.
Booker has also missed nine games due to foot, calf, and ankle problems this season, while Durant has missed five due to foot and ankle injuries.
“Keep leading, playing, and competing,” Booker advised. “We have a job to do, and we will do it.” We’ve all had a lot of experience and have seen situations like this happen before. It’s all in how you react. I’m sure he’s getting therapy and preparing right now.”
Durant praised Beal, describing him as a “selfless player” who can do everything on the court. He also lauded his work ethic, saying, “Those are the kind of people I enjoy being around.”
Durant had 29 points and six assists in 36 minutes of action on Friday. Durant, who is in his 17th season, is used to coping with injuries and outlined the team’s outlook for the future.
“No hard feelings, next man up,” Durant added. “This is professional sports, and we’ve been a part of it for a long time.” Guys are hurt, and (crap) happens. In the first half, I believe we rallied around each other and played some solid soccer. I also played well in the third quarter. They made shots, became heated, and aggressive. They annihilated us in the pick and roll, and that was the end of the game.”