The Phoenix Suns will host the Indiana Pacers on Thursday, December 19, at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns are coming off a 116-109 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, which snapped their three-game losing streak. This win improved their record to 14-11 for the season, while the Pacers currently stand at 12-15.
A key storyline heading into the game is the return of Kevin Durant for the Suns. Durant, who has been sidelined for several games due to a left ankle sprain, is set to take the court against Indiana.
Kevin Durant (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Both teams released their injury reports ahead of the matchup. For the Suns, Collin Gillespie remains out with an ankle injury, and Bradley Beal is listed as questionable due to a knee issue.
On the other hand, the Pacers will be without Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman for the season due to calf injuries. Aaron Nesmith (ankle) and Ben Sheppard (oblique) are also unavailable for Thursday’s game.
Kevin Durant Shares Excitement For NBA Cup Final
After Tuesday’s practice, Kevin Durant expressed his excitement for the upcoming NBA Cup Final. When asked about his thoughts on the tournament and the finals, Durant praised the competition and shared his belief in its growing popularity.
“The suspense of the cup has been amazing, and the games have been great. Teams that have put forth the effort want to win the cup. I heard Damian Lillard say that in a few years, more and more people are going to start getting on board with the cup. I agree because each year is getting more and more exciting, and I want to experience that in Vegas,” Durant said.
The Phoenix Suns team unfortunately could not be a part of the game as Durant has only played in 15 games this season. But in those games, he has made a significant impact when available. He is averaging 26.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game.