Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen’s sprained right ankle, sustained in the series opener, flared up again, forcing him to hobble off in the third quarter of Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday. Allen underwent X-rays, revealing no fracture, but his status remains day-to-day.
Coach Frank Vogel praised Allen’s toughness before the game, but the Suns’ offense desperately needed a break. The trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal combined for an underwhelming 18 for 45 shooting, with Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert leading a stifling defensive effort for Minnesota.
Despite building an eight-point lead in the second quarter, the Suns faltered as the Wolves found their offensive rhythm and the crowd erupted. Booker improved slightly from Game 1 with 20 points, but committed six turnovers and six fouls. Coach Vogel emphasized the need to maintain composure and not let questionable calls affect their focus.
Allen’s injury occurred while guarding Mike Conley, as he landed awkwardly on his right leg after attempting to block a shot. He contributed only three points in Game 1 and three in Game 2.
“The NBA playoffs will test your emotional stability,” Vogel said. “We’ve got to make sure, as this is our first time going through this together as a group, when we face adversity we’ve got to respond to it.”
