SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – Devin Booker scored 24 points and Phoenix reserves sparked the decisive run for the Suns in a 117-103 win over the fading Utah Jazz yesterday.
“Our bench came in and changed the dynamic of the game from a physicality standpoint, getting stops. That allowed us to get out in transition,” Phoenix coach Monty Williams said.
Deandre Ayton had 14 points after missing four games with a bruised hip. But a trio off the bench was pivotal for Phoenix: Terrence Ross had 13 points, Cameron Payne added 12 and Bismack Biyombo scored 11. They helped the Suns to a 57-25 advantage in bench points.
“The bench is starting to come together. We are getting a better rhythm and groove, and when we come into the game we’re bringing a different level of energy,” Ross said.
The Suns (40-35) had lost four in a row on the road. But with this victory they sit more securely in the fourth spot in the Western Conference playoff race – which would give them home-court advantage in the first round.
Lauri Markkanen scored 25 points for Utah but shot six of 22.
“Rough shooting night. I thought I was getting good looks. Didn’t fall tonight,” Markkanen said.
Walker Kessler had 18 points and eight rebounds for the Jazz (35-40), who have lost four straight. Kessler also matched a career high with seven blocks.
“We could not throw the ball in the ocean for long stretches of time,” Utah coach Will Hardy said. “That can wear on you as a team.”
To get injured star Kevin Durant in a midseason trade, the Suns sacrificed some of their depth and have struggled at times – especially on defence – when their starters sit. But this game was different against the undermanned Jazz.
“If we’re going to get to where we want, it’s going to be different people every night,” star guard Chris Paul said.
“We need that confidence going into the playoffs.”
