Bradley Beal is set to make his return for the Phoenix Suns in a marquee NBA Cup clash against the LA Lakers on Tuesday, following a five-game absence due to a left calf injury. The star guard last played in the Suns’ 120-112 victory over the Utah Jazz on November 12.
In that game, Beal logged 29 minutes and delivered an impressive performance, scoring 24 points along with three rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. He shot efficiently, going 8 of 15 from the field, including 4 of 7 from beyond the arc.
Ahead of his return, Beal emphasized the importance of managing his injury carefully, keeping the bigger picture in focus as the Suns aim for a deep playoff run.
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“I love that I have a staff that kind of dials me back,” Beal said ahead of the game against the Lakers. “I can still be hardheaded. ‘Nah I’m good, I can push through,’ but they do a really good job of looking at big picture. ‘We want to play in June.’ That’s what’s most important.'”
Superstar Kevin Durant will also return alongside Bradley Beal, having missed the Suns’ last seven games due to a left calf strain. The Phoenix roster is energized by the return of their two stars, particularly as the team has struggled in Durant’s absence.
“Not having one of them is a big loss, not having both of them was huge,” Suns point guard Tyus Jones said. “We just weren’t playing our best ball and that happens throughout the year. Now we’re excited to get both of them back.”
Bradley Beal vs. LA Lakers
Bradley Beal has a decent track record against the Lakers, having faced the Purple and Gold 21 times in his career. He averages 20.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game, with efficient shooting splits of 48.8% from the field, including 40.9% from beyond the arc.
This season, the Suns have already faced the Lakers twice, with Beal participating in both matchups. The former Washington Wizards star contributed 15 points in each game.
Edited by Atishay Jain
