Suns Notes: Nurkic, Durant, Dunn, Allen
Jusuf Nurkic's big night lifts Suns past Blazers
Jusuf Nurkic had a big night for the Suns on Friday, scoring 22 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in a 113-105 win over the Trail Blazers. It was Nurkic's first 20-point game since joining the Suns in February, and he also added 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. The Suns improved to 22-32 with the win, while the Blazers fell to 21-33.
Nurkic was efficient from the field, shooting 9-of-14, and he also hit 4-of-5 from the free throw line. He was a force on the boards, grabbing 5 offensive rebounds, and he also played solid defense, holding Blazers center Jusuf Nurkic to just 12 points on 5-of-13 shooting.
Devin Booker led the Suns in scoring with 25 points, and he also added 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Deandre Ayton had a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Mikal Bridges added 15 points.
Damian Lillard led the Blazers with 24 points, and he also added 6 rebounds and 6 assists. CJ McCollum added 20 points, and Jusuf Nurkic had 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Kevin Durant to miss next 4 games with MCL sprain
Kevin Durant will miss the next four games with a sprained MCL, the Nets announced on Saturday. Durant suffered the injury in the Nets' 102-98 loss to the Heat on Friday night. He left the game in the third quarter and did not return.
The Nets said that Durant will be re-evaluated in two weeks. The Nets are 32-15 this season, and they are currently in second place in the Eastern Conference. They will have a tough stretch of games without Durant, as they are scheduled to play the Bucks, Celtics, and 76ers in their next four games.
Durant is averaging 29.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game this season. He is one of the best players in the NBA, and his absence will be a big blow to the Nets.
Kris Dunn agrees to 10-day contract with Suns
The Suns have agreed to a 10-day contract with Kris Dunn, the team announced on Saturday. Dunn was waived by the Kings earlier this week. He has played in 30 games this season, averaging 4.4 points and 3.1 assists per game.
Dunn is a good defender, and he should be able to help the Suns in that area. He is also a good passer, and he should be able to help the Suns move the ball and create scoring opportunities.
The Suns are hoping that Dunn can be a valuable addition to their team. They are currently in the playoff hunt, and they need all the help they can get.
Torrey Craig out indefinitely with knee injury
Torrey Craig is out indefinitely with a knee injury, the Suns announced on Saturday. Craig suffered the injury in the Suns' 113-105 win over the Blazers on Friday night. He left the game in the fourth quarter and did not return.
The Suns said that Craig will be re-evaluated in two weeks. The Suns are 22-32 this season, and they are currently in 12th place in the Western Conference. They will have a tough time making the playoffs without Craig, who is one of their best defenders.
Craig is averaging 7.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game this season. He is also a good defender, and he is known for his hustle and energy.