The Phoenix Suns visit the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of their first-round series on Sunday afternoon. All eyes were on the injury report before tip-off. Grayson Allen and Mark Williams were initially both listed as questionable heading into Sunday, but Allen has been upgraded to available and Williams has been downgraded to out. Allen is dealing with a left hamstring strain and Williams is managing left foot soreness. Here’s everything we know about their injuries and playing status vs. the Thunder, as Phoenix prepares for a daunting postseason opener on the road.
Suns’ injury concerns loom ahead of Game 1
Allen and Williams both missed the Suns’ NBA Play-In Tournament victory over the Golden State Warriors to advance to the playoffs. Allen had been out since April 10 against the Los Angeles Lakers with his hamstring strain. Allen averaged 3.1 3-pointers made per game during the regular season, so his spacing is essential for Phoenix’s offensive ecosystem. That’s especially true alongside Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, and Jalen Green. Having Allen out there will take some pressure off those top scorers, but it remains to be seen how much he’ll be able to play.
Meanwhile, Williams is dealing with left foot soreness, an injury picked up against the Portland Blazers in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Since arriving in Phoenix, Williams has anchored the Suns’ interior defense and rebounding presence. Against a Thunder team with Chet Holmgren patrolling the paint, Williams’ availability could be pivotal. With Williams out, Oso Ighodaro got the start in Game 1.
Suns’ outlook for Game 1
Entering the postseason as underdogs against the top-seeded Thunder is already a steep climb. That said, doing so at less than full strength only complicates matters. Oklahoma City has been one of the most consistent teams all season. Meanwhile, Phoenix is once again navigating late-season injury uncertainty.
Head coach Jordan Ott has leaned on a “next man up” mentality all year. Of course, playoff basketball rarely rewards thin margins. Getting Allen’s shooting back will be important, but not having Williams’ size will impact Phoenix’s ability to keep pace. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET.
Suns injury report
- Grayson Allen – Available (Left Hamstring; Strain)
- Mark Williams – Out (Left Foot; Soreness)
Thunder injury report
- Thomas Sorber – Out (Right ACL; Surgical Recovery)
The Phoenix Suns visit the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of their first-round series on Sunday afternoon. All eyes were on the injury report before tip-off. Grayson Allen and Mark Williams were initially both listed as questionable heading into Sunday, but Allen has been upgraded to available and Williams has been downgraded to out.