Oklahoma City ThunderOpen full analysis
Phoenix SunsOpen full analysis
The Phoenix Suns edged the Oklahoma City Thunder 108–105 on January 4 at Footprint Center in a defensive battle that fell short of the Vegas total of 229.5 points. J. Goodwin led Phoenix with 26 points while D. Booker added 24, as the Suns shot 44.3 percent from the field and made 17 three-pointers to overcome a shooting efficiency disadvantage. Oklahoma City's S. Gilgeous-Alexander paced the visitors with 25 points and J. Williams contributed 23, but the Thunder's superior field-goal percentage (47.6 percent) and ball security—committing only 9 turnovers versus Phoenix's 15—proved insufficient. The Suns' fourth quarter proved decisive, outscoring OKC 34–32 in the final frame to secure the narrow victory. Phoenix's defensive rating of 107.8 held Oklahoma City's 107.8 offensive rating in check, while the Thunder's defense (114.0 rating) couldn't contain the Suns' balanced attack. The loss leaves Oklahoma City searching for consistency as the playoff race intensifies.
