In Game 2 of the first-round series between the Phoenix Suns and the Minnesota Timberwolves, Suns guard Grayson Allen aggravated his sprained right ankle, which he initially suffered in the playoff opener.
This setback forced him to exit the game during the third quarter, further impacting the Suns’ performance. Despite efforts to continue, the Suns ultimately lost 105-93, allowing the Timberwolves to take a 2-0 lead in the series.
Following the game, the Suns announced that Allen would be sidelined for the remainder of the game due to his ankle injury.
Coach Frank Vogel provided reassurance, stating that X-rays revealed no serious damage and that Allen’s condition would be monitored on a day-to-day basis. This uncertainty regarding Allen’s availability adds another layer of concern for the Suns as they prepare for Game 3, scheduled for Friday.
In his post-game comments, Allen expressed uncertainty about how his ankle would respond to treatment over the next two days but expressed gratitude for the additional time to recover.
He described the nature of the injury as similar to the initial incident in Game 1, noting that he landed awkwardly after attempting to block a shot, resulting in a hard roll of his ankle upon landing.
During the game, the moment of injury occurred as Allen was defending Mike Conley’s drive to the lane, prompting him to leap into the air in an attempt to block the shot.
Unfortunately, his landing proved problematic, leading to the exacerbation of his ankle injury. The sight of Allen being assisted off the court and into the locker room underscored the seriousness of the situation.
Before the game, Vogel had praised Allen’s toughness and determination to play despite his injury status. Despite his limited playing time in Game 1 and Game 2, Allen’s absence would undoubtedly impact the Suns, given his significant contributions throughout the season, particularly as the NBA’s leader in 3-point shooting percentage.
Allen’s health will remain a focal point as the Suns attempt to bounce back in the remainder of the series against the Timberwolves.
