Update: Allen is out for the rest of Game 2, per the team. We’ll see if he’s able to return for Game 3 or if the ankle injury keeps him out longer.
INJURY UPDATE: Grayson Allen (right ankle) will not return.
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 24, 2024
Phoenix Suns shooting guard Grayson Allen went back to the locker room in Tuesday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves with an ankle injury. Allen had three points and three rebounds at the time he suffered the injury. He was listed as questionable during the day with an ankle sprain but ultimately was able to play in this game.
That was a very rough looking ankle sprain for Grayson Allen. Huge development in this series, especially considering Phoenix’s already prominent lack of depth.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) April 24, 2024
Depending on how serious this injury is, Allen’s loss would be a big one for the Suns. He was one of the league’s best three-point shooters by percentage, and he was getting significant usage because he would often be available when defenders closed on Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Allen has been a part of the Suns’ starting lineup for nearly the whole season and him not playing would test Phoenix’s depth.
Eric Gordon would likely step into the starting lineup in Allen’s place should he miss time. Gordon and Royce O’Neale would be in line for more playing time. Head coach Frank Vogel, who has shortened his rotation, might have to experiment with Josh Okogie and Nassir Little to make up for Allen’s absence if he is sidelined for a while.