Suns Eye Second Straight Win as Raptors Try to Shake Off Slump

The Phoenix Suns finally ended their four-game skid with a 121-117 win over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday. Now, they’re looking to build off that momentum when they take on the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night.

Meanwhile, the Raptors have lost six of their last seven, including a 120-111 overtime defeat to the Miami Heat on Friday. Can they bounce back at home against a Suns team testing a new-look lineup?

Suns Finding Their Groove After Lineup Change

Phoenix’s win in Chicago wasn’t just about snapping a losing streak—it was a test for their revamped starting lineup. With Bradley Beal returning to the first unit for the first time since Jan. 4, Devin Booker (29 points), Kevin Durant (27 points, 10 rebounds), and Beal (25 points) all shined.

Head coach Mike Budenholzer is keeping an open mind about rotations.

“We’re always looking at different combinations,” Budenholzer said. “We feel like all those guys can handle it, and we’re always trying to figure out how we can be our best.”

Beal’s return to the starting five was met with positive energy from the team.

“I like it,” Booker said. “A lot of threats out there, a lot of scoring options, and just defending at a high level. The communication was higher than normal.”

While Tyus Jones shifted to the bench, he embraced the change.

“We’re trying to right the ship,” Jones said. “Coach let me know, and I’m all for it.”

Sunday’s game will be the fourth of five straight on the road for Phoenix, and they’ll be aiming for their third win in ten games.

Raptors Searching for Answers

Toronto’s post-All-Star struggles continued Friday. Seven first-quarter turnovers led to an early 30-19 deficit against Miami.

“We won the second, third, and fourth quarters, but we need a better start,” coach Darko Rajaković said.

Despite rallying to force OT, Toronto collapsed in extra time, getting outscored 13-4.

Injury Concerns:

• Scottie Barnes twisted his ankle in the first quarter but returned after getting re-taped. He practiced Saturday and is expected to play.
• Jakob Poeltl (hip pointer) has missed six straight games and remains questionable for Sunday.

Who Has the Edge?

Phoenix’s big three looked sharp in their first full game together, and they’ll try to exploit a struggling Toronto defense. Meanwhile, the Raptors need to clean up turnovers and sluggish starts if they want to snap their skid.

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Can the Suns keep their momentum going, or will the Raptors finally turn things around at home?

We’ll find out soon enough.