Imagine a thrilling NBA showdown where a team overcomes adversity, rallies from behind, and clinches a hard-fought victory—all while their opponents face a devastating blow. That’s exactly what happened when the Atlanta Hawks stunned the Phoenix Suns with a 110-103 win on Friday night. But here’s where it gets even more dramatic: the Suns’ star player, Devin Booker, exited the game with a right ankle injury, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering how the game might have unfolded differently.
Jalen Johnson stole the spotlight with a powerhouse performance, scoring 23 points and grabbing a career-tying 18 rebounds to secure his NBA-leading 30th double-double of the season. His dominance on the court was undeniable, but he wasn’t alone. Onyeka Okungwu chipped in with 25 points, proving to be a critical force in the Hawks’ comeback. Atlanta, down 91-84 late in the third quarter, found their rhythm after Booker’s exit, outscoring Phoenix 26-12 in a decisive fourth quarter.
And this is the part most people miss: the Hawks’ bench played a pivotal role in the victory. CJ McCollum, who extended his double-digit scoring streak to an impressive 34 games, dropped 21 points off the bench, showcasing why he’s been a game-changer since arriving in Atlanta via a trade with Washington earlier this year. Speaking of that trade, it’s worth noting that McCollum and Corey Kispert were acquired in exchange for Trae Young—a move that continues to spark debates among fans. Was it the right call? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
The Hawks’ shooting efficiency was another standout factor, as they connected on 43 of 81 field goal attempts, including 13 of 26 from beyond the arc. This marks their second win over the Suns this season, following a 124-122 victory in mid-November.
For Atlanta, this win was especially sweet, snapping a five-game losing streak after their Wednesday triumph over Memphis. However, it wasn’t without challenges—the Hawks were missing key players Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles tendinitis), Zaccharie Risacher (left knee contusion), and N’Faly Dante (torn ACL).
Looking ahead, the Suns will host the Miami Heat on Sunday, while the Hawks prepare to face the Indiana Pacers on Monday night. But here’s the real question: Can the Suns bounce back without Booker, or will his absence derail their season? And how far can the Hawks go with their current roster? Share your predictions below—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
