Devin Booker Injury Update as Suns HC Jordan Ott Reveals Status vs Lakers

The Phoenix Suns delivered a stunning win over the Los Angeles Lakers on December 2 in Los Angeles, but the victory was overshadowed by a new concern. Devin Booker exited early with a right groin injury, prompting an immediate update from head coach Jordan Ott. The Suns ruled him out before halftime, raising fresh questions about his status.

The injury happened in the first quarter as Booker drove past Jaxson Hayes for a finish. Suns insider Duane Rankin reported that Booker “hurt himself on the drive,” confirming the sequence that forced the star guard to leave the game. Booker scored 11 points in 10 minutes before heading to the locker room and never returning.

Devin Booker Injury Update After Exit vs Lakers

The Suns confirmed the right groin injury late in the first half. Booker was not seen on the bench after the initial timeout, and team officials announced he would not return. This raised immediate concern because Booker has a history of December groin issues, including significant missed time in both 2021 and 2022.

Before his exit, Booker made league history. He became the third-youngest player to reach 17,000 career points and 3,600 assists. Only LeBron James and Oscar Robertson reached the milestone earlier, according to verified league data.

Booker entered the matchup averaging 25.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game this season. He has been shooting 45.5 percent from the field and 87.3 percent from the free-throw line. The Suns signed him to a two-year extension in July, reinforcing his central role in Phoenix’s long-term plans.

Ott’s update acknowledged the concern but did not offer a timetable. He confirmed Booker’s injury took place on the driving play over Hayes and added that the team would assess him further. The Suns have not released details beyond the initial diagnosis as of December 2.

The injury came during a high-energy start. Booker contributed early playmaking and scoring before his exit forced Phoenix to adjust. The Suns turned to Dillon Brooks, who delivered eight straight baskets in the second quarter, helping Phoenix surge ahead despite missing their primary offensive engine.

Suns Dominate Lakers Despite Booker’s Absence

The Suns controlled the game even without their All-Star guard. The first quarter ended 31-31 before Phoenix exploded with a 35-21 second quarter. Brooks stepped into the scoring void. Collin Gillespie added a deep three in the final seconds of the half, pushing the lead to 66-52.

Ball movement was the difference. Phoenix recorded 35 assists and forced 22 Lakers turnovers. The Suns also dominated transition scoring with 28 fast-break points. Los Angeles managed only two fast-break points while committing costly mistakes.

Luka Doncic finished with 38 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists but matched a career high with nine turnovers. LeBron James scored 11 points before leaving the game in the fourth quarter. Neither could overcome the Suns’ pace and efficiency.

The Suns improved to 13-9 after the 125-108 win, staying seventh in the Western Conference. The victory showed Phoenix’s depth and resilience even without Booker. The team now faces renewed uncertainty as they await further evaluation of his groin injury.

The Suns will monitor Booker closely. His recovery timeline remains the key question after this latest groin setback.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Devin Booker injury update?

The Suns confirmed a right groin injury and ruled him out on December 2. More evaluation is expected soon. No timeline has been provided.

Q2: How did Devin Booker get injured vs the Lakers?

He hurt himself on a first-quarter drive past Jaxson Hayes. Jordan Ott confirmed the play during the postgame update.

Q3: Did the Suns win without Devin Booker?

Yes. Phoenix won 125-108 behind strong performances from Dillon Brooks and the bench. The team dominated the second quarter.

Q4: Has Booker had groin injuries before?

Yes. He missed significant time in December 2021 and December 2022 with similar injuries. This adds concern for the current issue.

Q5: What milestone did Booker reach before exiting?

He became the third-youngest player to reach 17,000 points and 3,600 assists. Only LeBron James and Oscar Robertson hit the mark earlier.